A local man who is bidding to become Frome's new MP is calling on both the national government and local councils to do more to support small businesses.

Cllr Gavin Heathcote, who will stand as the Independent candidate in July 4's General Election for the brand-new Frome and East Somerset constituency, says small businesses should never 'lose out' in favour of large corporations.

"There needs to be more help made available by both national and local government to support small businesses who are being priced out by larger companies," he said.

"We're slowly seeing the death of the High Street due to poor decision making from establishment politicians.

"A new way of doing things would be a breath of fresh air for us all!"

If elected as Frome and East Somerset's first MP next month, the Independent candidate says he will:

• Call on the government to introduce a new grant subsidy scheme for small businesses who have less than 10 employees. The grant would be used to cover the cost of heating and electricity bills.
• Move legislation to ensure that local council's can't introduce parking charges in areas where there are a high proportion of small business outlets, such as Midsomer Norton.
• Call on councils to introduce greater rate relief for small businesses
• Campaign to secure funding for an annual 'Small Business Saturday' Festival across Frome and East Somerset.

Cllr Heathcote, who also serves as a local charity director, says support for small independent businesses is one of his priorities.

"Businesses are struggling enough as it is due to the rise in the cost of goods, fewer people using local services and the attraction and ease of online shopping," he explained.

"Local businesses are often the 'lifeblood' of our communities.

"As I've been out and about across Frome and East Somerset meeting business leaders and shop owners, they often tell me they need more support, so I'm hoping that my four-point plan listed above will make a difference."

Other confirmed local candidates include Anna Sabine (Liberal Democrats), Lucy Trimnell (Conservative), Robin Moss (Labour), David Swain (Reform) and Martin Dimery (Green).