I came forward for election in my fifties at a time when I had already had a good legal and marketing career. My mother was a nurse and my step-father was struggling with a heart condition which motivated me to ‘get involved’ and fight to make our health service the best it could be. I wanted to make a difference and give something back.

The journey was an education in itself! They say you make your own luck and I guess I was lucky when David Cameron decided to establish a candidate list to bring more business women into parliament.

Each party has it’s own selection process which changes for every election! Selection is never easy, and the key is to look at where there is the best match between what you have to offer and what the constituency wants and needs. My family roots are in Brixham in Devon so when Newton Abbot came up, I really felt the need to represent my local area.

You need energy, enthusiasm and a pair of good walking shoes! You can take knocks and it’s important to remember that you can’t please all of the people all of the time, no matter how hard you try!

The process isn’t easy which in turn ensures that only those with drive and passion to implement change and be accountable for decisions made by the Government are successful.

The journey from member of the public to Member of Parliament is a time consuming and occasionally difficult journey. The support given by my family, close friends and allies proved invaluable as they spurred me on to keep going and believe that I could make a difference.

I thoroughly enjoy getting out and about, meeting the pubic, knocking on doors, getting involved in local groups and I care about fixing local problems. People want to be heard and if someone is willing to listen, understand and act on local issues then the public are right behind you.

The main challenge is when meeting those with entrenched views who will not waver in their political beliefs making it rather difficult when trying to engage in political debate!

I wouldn’t have changed my journey into politics at all. The highs and lows of campaigning and electioneering stand you in good stead to face the turbulent life within Westminster.

Helping small local businesses, fighting for our railway line with more investment in our infrastructure, I campaign tirelessly for fairer funding for education and health. I’m passionate about a rural model of health and social care which better meets our Devon needs.

With the centenary of the Women’s Right to Vote this year, I believe that there is no better time for women to realise their potential and stand for what they believe is right and good. I engage with schools, colleges, Brownies and Guides to show that women and girls, with encouragement and guidance, can make a difference.