BY-ELECTION candidate Danny Stupple wants to be the “independent voice for the ordinary person”.

The independent candidate is in the running for the Eastleigh seat vacated by Chris Huhne.

Mr Stupple, who has lived and worked in the Eastleigh area for 28 years, said he is committed to giving young people in the region hope and an education that equips them for the workplace and making sure the NHS is patient-centred and not management-driven.

He said he was horrified by the coalition's disregard in pushing through legislative changes such as the redefinition of the marriage bill, without any mandate from the people.

He also wants to make sure Eastleigh borough issues are independently and properly represented.

Mr Stupple said: “Party bosses are telling their MPs how to vote and forcing them to obey the party line at every turn.

“People have asked me to be an independent voice for the ordinary person who wants to be heard.

“A vote for me will send a loud message to parliament that the people of Eastleigh Borough want to be listened to and must not be ignored.”

The chartered quantity surveyor, who has run his own business since 1993, added that he understands the unique pressures facing business owners during this time of recession.

Married to Pippa, an NHS practice manager, and father of three children, aged 24, 22 and 18, Mr Stupple said he was also committed to supporting parents in providing happy and stable homes.

He says he has been involved in community initiatives like Street Pastors and organisations helping people and families in financial crisis, such as the Eastleigh Basics Bank, as well as encouraging young people to develop a job club in Fair Oak.

He was chair of governors at Wyvern College from 2001 to 2011.