In the Spotlight: Marilyn Wallace (From Bridgwater Mercury)

In the Spotlight: Marilyn Wallace

12:30pm Sunday 11th January 2009 in

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Marilyn Wallace: New chair of Bridgwater and West Somerset Liberal Democrats Marilyn Wallace is married to Ian with two grown up daughters, two sons-in-law and three grand daughters so far. Over the years she has worked in a bank, been a foster carer, a secondary school teacher, a housing officer and a youth worker. From 1995 to 2003, people in East Huntspill, West Huntspill and Pawlett elected Marilyn to serve them on Sedgemoor District Council. She has have just been elected chairman of Bridgwater and West Somerset Liberal Democrats for 2009.

What is the best and worst thing about the place you live in?“I have lived in Chedzoy for 16 years. The best things about living in the village are the traditional community events - Burns night, the flower show, harvest auction and candlelight carols for example. The worst thing is when I hear people 'putting down' Bridgwater, and I always jump to the town's defence if I hear negative comments. There are lots of good things about our town and people.”

What is the best and worst thing about your job?“The best thing is that I am part of a team of like-minded people trying to put ideas into action to improve our community locally and nationally. The worst thing is that politics is such a difficult topic to get people interested and involved in.”

What was your ambition as a child?“When I was young I would have liked to be a photographer. Now I enjoy watercolour painting classes.”

What has been your greatest achievement?“I am very proud of my daughters and what they are achieving in their lives. But small results can give satisfaction too. Being a Sedgemoor councillor gave me the chance to help sort out people's problems. For example one lady had a big tree growing too close to her house. Workmen from the council not only removed it, they also planted a smaller species of flowering tree. The householder was relieved and delighted, and so was I.”

What characteristic you dislike most in others and in yourself?“I get annoyed by judgmental people, who cannot put themselves in other people's shoes but think they know what is best for them anyway. My weakness is that I struggle to be punctual for appointments - I never seem to make them on time!”

What is your biggest fear?“My biggest fear is of being caught up in the violence around the world. I am so fortunate not to have experienced war.”

When and where were you happiest?“I was happiest when I passed my driving test aged 45. The independence it gave me!”

What three items would you take to a desert island?“A penknife, a survival book and a fishing rod.”

Who are your dream dinner party guests (maximum five)?“Barack Obama, a suffragette, Madonna, Vince Cable MP and my husband.”

How would you like to be remembered?“If people remember me I hope they will think I was funny, perceptive and a positive influence on the planet.”