MP for Rutland and Stamford (Conservative) Alicia Kearns has backed the Conservative candidate standing in the up-coming by-election in Rutland's Barleythorpe ward. 

There are four candidates hoping to be elected, including Andrew Dinsmore (Conservative), Jonathan Nichols (Liberal Democrats), Andy Burton (Independent) and Declan McCarthy (Reform UK). 

Andrew Dinsmore has experience in local councils, having been elected as a Councillor at Fullham Town Council in 2022. He also stood in the 2024 parliamentary general election in Hammersmith and Chiswich but was not elected. 

Andrew has experience as a Barrister and lives in Rutland with his wife, son and two dogs. 

Speaking about Andrew Dinsmore, MP Alicia Kearns said: "On 24th July, you will elect your new councillor for Barleythorpe, but who you choose will determine who leads Rutland Council Council and whether the Liberal Democrats retain control of the Council making decisions for our communities. 

"I need a Council who will work with me, not against me. Andrew Dismore wants to make sure your voice is heard at RCC. He's been a Councillor before, and coupled with his skills as a Barrister, he'll get cracking on the issues that matter most to you. 

"You deserve someone who gets your voice heard, has the experience to get things done, and is a decent and kind person who cares about listening to residents." 

Andrew has spoken on his X (formerly known as Twitter) about his goal, if he is elected, to pressure RCC to finish their S19 report into the flooding the area experienced last winter. 

He also says he is passionate about helping residents facing issues with accessing GP appointments and transport, as well as improving accessible facilities for young people, young families and veterans. 

In 2022, Andrew was mugged with a machete in Central London, leading to him launching a petition with over 140,000 that helped to secure a nationwide ban on the sale of machetes. 

The Barleyward by-election will take place on Thursday 24th July. The deadline to apply for, change or cancel postal or postal proxy votes must reach Rutland County Council's election office by 5pm on Wednesday 9th July. 

The deadline to apply for a new proxy vote is midnight on Tuesday 8th July. 

For more information about the by-election, voter registration and more, visit Rutland County Council's by-election page here.