THE deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats visited local election candidates in Burnham-on-Sea during a flying visit to the town.

Jo Swinson MP, who is the party’s deputy leader, travelled all the way from her constituency in East Dunbartonshire to visit Burnham on Wednesday (April 17), as part of a wider tour of Somerset.

The deputy leader met Liberal Democrat candidates for Sedgemoor District Council, Burnham and Highbridge Town Council and Mendip District Council and spoke to them about what they will do if they are elected.

She said: "It was fantastic to see such great energy and optimism among our activists and candidates.

"The residents of Sedgemoor and Mendip deserve better than the careless Conservative councils currently serving them.

"The Liberal Democrats have a proud tradition of delivering in local government, and I have no doubt that the candidates I met will work incredibly hard to improve the opportunities, support and services available in their communities."

Ms Swinson also paid a visit to staff at In Charley’s Memory, a mental health charity based in Burnham which is focused on providing counselling to children and young people.

During her visit, Ms Swinson was told Charley’s story by his grandmother, Pauline West, and found out about how In Charley’s Memory works with local schools to support children and young people experiencing mental health difficulties.

Ms Swinson praised the charity and said she was 'inspired' by the work that they do.

She said: "In Charley's Memory is a perfect example of the kind of support that young people all around the country need.

"While listening to Charley's story was heart-breaking, it was wonderful to hear about all the young people this amazing charity has helped in Burnham-on-Sea.

"As Liberal Democrats we have always campaigned for far greater investment in mental health services because no family should have to suffer like Charley's has."