Committee member of West Midlands Lib Dem Youth and local party diversity officer, Stephen Sherwood died aged 25, earlier this year. Despite having two kidney transplants and losing his sight, Stephen was involved in his local community and planned to stand for Herefordshire Council in 2015. Everyone who met him was amazed by his ambition and determination to overcome the obstacles that life had thrown at him.
Herefordshire Lib Dems have launched a new community award competition in memory of Stephen.

Lucy Hurds, Liberal Democrat PPC for Hereford and South Herefordshire said:

The scheme has received widespread support and offers of help from across the political parties. Stephen was an inspiration to us all and this seems a fitting and appropriate tribute.

Baroness Shirley Williams heard of the award and was keen to meet Stephen’s father when she visited Hereford last week. She also met representatives of other local political parties who will all help judge the final entries.

The award is open to all young people in Herefordshire aged 16-18. They have been asked to come up with an idea to improve their local area and present it however they wish (maximum: 250 words). The winner will receive £50 and get their idea put into action. Further details are available on the website of Herefordshire Liberal Democrats.

Ideas must be sent in by 24th December 2014, which would have been Stephen’s 26th birthday. The judging panel, including Stephen’s father, will choose a shortlist of entries which will then be voted on by local young people. Herefordshire Council Electoral Services are looking at ways to help us to make this a real voting experience for all.

* Kevin Tillett is chair of Herefordshire Liberal Democrats