Abbey ward Lib Dems
Cllr John Braithwaite
John has lived in Wimbledon for over 30 years, so can safely say that Wimbledon is his home. Before he retired, he worked as a business analyst both for a small consultancy and for a manufacturing company. This took him throughout the UK as well as such places as China, South Africa and Romania.
On retirement, he and his wife considered following friends to live in the country, but they realised that all they liked doing was close by, and they loved living here. If elected, John is looking forward to making use of his business skills in understanding issues and finding practical solutions to improve the lives of those he represents.
John was elected Councillor for Abbey ward on 5th May 2022.
Contact John: john@mertonlibdems.org.uk
Cllr Klaar Dresselaers
Originally from The Netherlands, Klaar has lived in South Wimbledon since 2010. Formerly a primary school teacher, she now works as a university admissions officer. She loves our area and wants to see an end to rubbish and fly tipping on our streets.
Klaar was elected Councillor for Abbey ward on 5th May 2022.
Contact Klaar: klaar@mertonlibdems.org.uk
Barry Smith
Barry has lived in South Wimbledon for the past 15 years, having returned to the area after a decade in the Netherlands. He works as a computer programmer in the financial regulation sector. Before joining the Liberal Democrats, Barry was an active environmental campaigner and believes the Lib Dems now offer the strongest approach to tackling climate and environmental challenges in British politics.
He initiated Merton Lib Dems’ campaign for improved electric vehicle charging in the borough and continues to push for practical solutions to local environmental issues. Barry’s key concerns for the area include the persistent problems of litter and fly-tipping, as well as the council’s lack of serious action on the climate emergency.
Contact Barry: barry@mertonlibdems.org.uk
