Licensee at Coach & Horses in Kibworth, Leicestershire, to enter world of politics

Southerden, who currently runs the Coach & Horses in Kibworth, Leicestershire, is to represent the Conservative party in the Wigston Bushloe (Leicestershire) county council elections on 2 May.

“Let’s face facts, your time is not your own as the pub trade is a 24/7 lifestyle job,” he said. However, he added that after five years working in the area he feels a real affinity and connection to the people of Wigston.

“I don’t think I’ll make a difference, I know I’ll make a difference,” he said.
Southerden sold his pub within the first week of it being on the market at the end of March, subject to the new tenant being cleared by Punch Taverns.

“If you look at the current market that is a massive achievement and I think it’s indicative of the hard work that we’ve put into the Coach & Horses over the past five years,” he said.

If elected, Southerden hopes to freeze council tax, support jobs and growth, and protect the vulnerable in society.