Real change starts here

11.41.47am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 4th Jul 2009

April Pond is working hard for the people of Norwich

April Pond has set the early pace in the race to become our new local MP. A successful local businesswoman and community campaigner, April has a strong record of standing up for Norwich.

April Pond has already been joined on the campaign trail by Norfolk MP Norman Lamb and Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg.

She has built herself a reputation as an effective local campaigner working alongside Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb campaigning to save local health services.

Born and bred in Norfolk, unlike the other main candidates April Pond is far from a Westminster insider.

She has spent all her life working and raising her family in Norwich and ran jewellery and catering businesses in the city.

April Pond said: "As a working parent I know the challenges that local families face.

"I'll demand more action from the Government to help ordinary people who are struggling through the recession."

Addressing the issue of MPs' expenses, April said, " I am pledging right now to be open and honest with local people on this."

Norfolk MP Norman Lamb said: "If Norwich wants an independent-minded MP who will stand up for them and fight for Norwich, then April is the right choice."