One independent candidate hopes to tackle antisocial behaviour by bridging the gap between seniors and the youth.

Antoine Raynor, who is running in Warwick North Central, said that young people in his constituency need mentors, while the elderly have skills to offer.

He was one of five independent candidates to come forward yesterday, along with the Reverend Maria Seaman, also in Warwick North Central, David W. Burch in Warwick South East, Marilyn Steede in Devonshire South Central and Norris Brangman in Sandys North Central.

Mr Raynor said: “We have a lot of older people in our area. Talking to the people while canvassing I have found that the issues include our elderly persons trying to decide between buying groceries or paying for their medicine because they don’t have adequate health insurance, and our youth that are frustrated.

“There has been a spike in violence in our area. A lot of it stems from frustration: not being able to find a job, having idle time and not having a sense of direction.

“We have elders that are former teachers and who are really skilled. They are retired and don’t have a lot to do. We also have youth who need mentors. We should be bringing them together.”

A political newcomer, Mr Raynor said: “I know that the politicians have to toe party lines and a lot of times that means the needs of the individual constituencies get lost. I wanted to be able to run so that I could bring those issues forward. I want to be able to not just run, but win so that I can be an advocate for my area.”

Mr Burch, a familiar name on the ballot paper, set out a platform that focuses on community education, herbal alternatives in healthcare, low-cost housing for seniors and disabled, community gardens, the elimination of new taxes, and law reform.

He said: “I’m speaking about the streets from Ord Road, the lack of bus service for Ord Road, the lack of policing, all the racing up and down the streets.”

He said independents have struggled in past elections because the public “fail themselves by not understanding what an independent candidate’s all about”.

He explained “Independent candidates represent that particular constituency. I intend to be a voice for that constituency.”

Dr Seaman said that people need to focus on the years between elections “so that communities can win”.

She said: “I see parties winning but I don’t see people winning like I believe they can.

“As always, I’m going to focus on the children. We need to really look at the education system.”