The Liberal Democrats have chosen Yeovil councillor Graham Oakes as their candidate for the Bridgwater and Burnham-On-Sea constituency at the next general election, confirming his selection following a unanimous vote by local party members.
Cllr Oakes, who represents the Yeovil East ward on Somerset Council and also serves on Yeovil Town Council, will contest the seat currently held by Conservative MP Ashley Fox.
At the 2024 general election, Ashley Fox retained the seat ahead of Labour’s Leigh Redman, with Liberal Democrat Claire Sully finishing fourth, around 6,500 votes behind.
Cllr Oakes previously held the lead member role at Somerset Council for public health, climate change and the environment until May. Speaking after his selection, he said it was “a huge privilege” to be chosen and pledged to offer “a positive alternative” for residents across the constituency.
He said his campaign would focus on everyday issues raised on the doorstep, including the cost of living, the future of high streets and access to NHS services. “People want representatives who focus on the issues that affect their day‑to‑day lives and who will work hard for their communities,” he said.
Cllr Oakes and his wife are both nurses and manage care homes specialising in dementia care. They have four children and one grandchild. Away from politics, he is a lifelong Yeovil Town FC supporter with an interest in local history and cookery.
