Liberal Democrats Select Stephen Walkley as Candidate for Fleckney By-Election

The South Leicestershire Liberal Democrats have announced Stephen Walkley as their candidate for the upcoming Fleckney Ward by-election, which takes place on Thursday, 6th November.

Stephen, who has lived locally since 1984, brings a wealth of professional and community experience to the campaign. He spent much of his career in retail with Marks & Spencer and John Lewis, before becoming Director of the UK’s largest net curtain company. He also served for five years on the NEST pensions employer’s panel.

Deeply rooted in the community, Stephen has volunteered extensively, including 13 years as Treasurer of a local Cricket Club, and as a Trustee of the Lutterworth Town Hall Charity, where he helped raise funds for a new lift and essential building repairs. He is also a member of the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust and a lifelong Leicester Tigers season ticket holder.

Stephen’s campaign focuses on tackling unsustainable housing developments, flooding risks, and pressure on local services such as roads, schools, and GP surgeries.

“We’ve already seen how vulnerable parts of Fleckney are to flooding,” said Stephen. “If developers are allowed to ignore the risks, it will only make things worse. Any new homes must come with strong safeguards and real investment in local infrastructure.”

He also emphasised the importance of standing up to the divisive politics of Reform UK:

“Supporting the Liberal Democrats is a powerful way to stand up for fairness, inclusivity, and evidence-based policy — values that oppose the fear-driven rhetoric of Reform.”

Stephen and his wife, a retired primary school head teacher, have raised two children locally and are now proud grandparents of four granddaughters.

The Liberal Democrats say Stephen’s long-standing ties to the area and his practical record of community service make him the ideal choice to represent Fleckney, Mowsley, Shearsby, Knaptoft and Saddington on the council.

“I want to protect our villages from flooding, demand sensible development, and build a fairer future for our community,” Stephen added.

if you want to contact Stephen you can email him directly: walkley@icloud.com