WELL-KNOWN author, storyteller and charity worker Tim Porteus is standing as the Scottish Green Party candidate in the Preston Seton Gosford by-election next month.

The 59-year-old, from Prestonpans, will also stand for the party in the ward at the full East Lothian Council elections next May.

The early years charity worker – who writes the weekly Tim’s Tales column for the Courier – works in Midlothian assisting children and families, and lives with his wife Kate and three youngest children.

Mr Porteus said: “I am standing because I believe my community has amazing assets in its people and beautiful natural setting, but we also have our issues that need to be addressed.

“I am passionate about education and children’s wellbeing but, here in East Lothian, we see significant local issues around education provision and opportunities for our young people.

“They have also been very adversely affected by Covid restrictions. While these restrictions have been necessary in keeping people safe, they have had deep-seated implications for our community.

“Eradicating poverty has to be a central focus in all this. We can only do this by making decisions based on the principles of social justice and creating a sustainable circular economy that works for everyone.

“I believe that the Scottish Greens will be a chance for the people of this amazing ward to show their support for taking a new approach to tackling the problems we face, and making the most of the benefits of our wonderful part of the world.”

Tim has pledged to campaign on better education provision and services for families, as well as supporting the Cockenzie 360 Project at the former power station site, which he believes would create long -term jobs and learning opportunities, and have a hugely positive impact on the environment.

Simon Francis, co-convenor of East Lothian Greens, added: “Tim will make an amazing councillor for an area he lives and breathes. His experience working on the frontline with children and families will ensure he brings much-needed real world insight into the decision-making of the council.

“I would urge everyone to vote for Tim and trust him to serve the community he loves.”

A by-election is taking place in the Preston Seton Gosford ward on Thursday, January 20, following the death of Councillor Willie Innes in October.

Mr Porteus is the third candidate so far announced for the by-election, joining Calum Miller (independent) and Colin Yorkston (Labour).