by Melanie Andrews MBE
After a great deal of thought, I’ve decided that I intend to stand as an Independent candidate for Helensburgh Central in the May 2027 Argyll and Bute Council elections.
For more than 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving our community through local charity work, fundraising and supporting causes close to the hearts of people in Helensburgh. I was deeply honoured to receive an MBE from Her Majesty The Queen in recognition of my services to my hometown. It remains one of the proudest moments of my life.
I’ve also spent over four decades running multiple local businesses, meeting people from all walks of life and seeing first-hand both the strengths of our town and the challenges we face.
I’m standing as an independent because I believe Helensburgh deserves a strong, honest, approachable and hardworking local voice—one that listens, works collaboratively and puts our community first.
This isn’t about political parties. It’s about Helensburgh.
Before taking the next step, I’d genuinely like to know whether you feel our town would benefit from an independent councillor. If you think it would, or even if you’re unsure, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments or by private message.
Whatever your views, thank you for taking the time to read this. Listening to the community will always come first with me.
For more than 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving our community through local charity work, fundraising and supporting causes close to the hearts of people in Helensburgh. I was deeply honoured to receive an MBE from Her Majesty The Queen in recognition of my services to my hometown. It remains one of the proudest moments of my life.
I’ve also spent over four decades running multiple local businesses, meeting people from all walks of life and seeing first-hand both the strengths of our town and the challenges we face.
I’m standing as an independent because I believe Helensburgh deserves a strong, honest, approachable and hardworking local voice—one that listens, works collaboratively and puts our community first.
This isn’t about political parties. It’s about Helensburgh.
Before taking the next step, I’d genuinely like to know whether you feel our town would benefit from an independent councillor. If you think it would, or even if you’re unsure, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments or by private message.
Whatever your views, thank you for taking the time to read this. Listening to the community will always come first with me.