Richard Evans

1985 – 1999

After graduating from the University of East Anglia (French and European Studies) in 1985, I spent some years teaching English in Paris, and then travelling in Latin America before settling down at a proper job with the Environmental Transport Association. Among my tasks there were editing the membership magazine and co-ordinating two exciting new national campaigns – Car Free Day and Green Transport Week.

1999 – 2005

The above led me into similar posts, firstly within the new Greater London Authority, delivering the London Car Free Day events for its first mayor Ken Livingstone, and following that at the Department for Transport, linking up with national partners across Europe to manage the UK’s participation in European Mobility Week and In Town Without My Car. Throughout this period, I was also the Merton branch co-ordinator of the London Cycling Campaign.

2005 – 2019

I was in transport planning for this period at the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, working with schools across the borough to cut driving to school, with a strong focus on walking and cycling instead. Over the period, we cut driving to school by around 50% across the borough.

In 2014, I took a six-month sabbatical to cycle around the world on a recumbent bicycle. In 2019, I set up Glaudax Cycle Tours with my brother, offering small group cycle touring holidays on the near continent.

I’ve lived in Raynes Park with my French wife since 1992. We have a son and daughter both in their 30s, and one 4-year old grandson.

Angela Manser

Originally from Portsmouth, I have lived in Merton since 1992 and in Raynes Park for over 20 years, and my children went to the local Merton schools, Rutlish and Ricards Lodge.

Working and raising children in London has not always been easy. Relying on public transport, local services, and affordable housing has shown me the need to ensure properly funded services, green spaces, and safe places for families. I first worked in London for the NHS as a secretary, where I saw the value of supporting local hospitals and ensuring good community health services. Later in life, I returned to education, gaining a degree and postgraduate qualifications, and then worked for Kingston Council. Here, I learned how important it is for Councillors to listen to residents, who know their communities best.

For the last 25 years, I have worked in education, supporting adult learners and university students from diverse backgrounds. As a trade union member, I believe strongly in community and collective power, decent wages, affordable housing, and public services that work for everyone.

I am standing as a Green Party Councillor because Merton needs Councillors who listen, work hard, and stand up for residents. The Green Party would be a strong, honest voice that will improve our environment and ensure that local voices are heard.