SUPPORTERS of the Green Party took in panoramic views from a popular viewpoint and picnic spot near Stroud to launch their district council election campaign.

Joined by their district council candidates members of the party met at the historic Coaley Peak on Sunday, April 10.

Commenting on the sprawling valley Green group leader and Stroud District Council Councillor Martin Whiteside (Thrupp) said: "From here we see the towns and villages of the vale, the rural farming communities, the Severn, our transport links ancient and modern.

He added: “From here we can see all that is precious, our traditions and our industry, the countryside that the Green Party seeks to protect and secure and the communities we serve with justice and equality.”

The party, which currently holds six seats, is putting forward candidates in all 27 wards for the elections for SDC on May 5.

Encouraging voters to strengthen ‘Green change’ in the district the party’s website states: “We believe in equality, living in balance with nature, and a better future based on the quality of community, friends and family rather than the quantity of stuff we buy and throw away.

Pledging that cllrs will fight to protection the countryside from ‘climate chaos’ the statement went on to discuss what the party has already achieved.

“We have worked to ensure green spaces are protected, and investment made to create and safeguard jobs in sustainable businesses.

“We’ve actively supported the building of energy-efficient council homes, and increased recycling throughout the district.”

To register to vote before April 18 go to gov.uk/register-to-vote and for more information about the Green Party visit stroud.greenparty.org.uk