Abbey ward Lib Dems
About us
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 first came to London as a student and has lived in South Wimbledon since 2010. A former primary school teacher, she now works as a university admissions officer. Klaar was elected Councillor for Abbey ward on 5th May 2022 and is passionate about supporting children and young people so they have the opportunities they need to thrive.
She is also committed to making culture and the arts more accessible to everyone in the community, while working to keep Abbey a clean and welcoming place to live. Klaar is dedicated to helping residents with local issues, listening to their concerns, and making sure their voices are heard.
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
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