Mike Rees - Wiltshire PCC Candidate - Campaign

Former police officer Mike Rees, who lives in North Wiltshire, has decided to commit to standing again for election to the role of Wiltshire Police & Crime Commissioner as an independent candidate. He's passionate about having a PCC who cares about policing above politics.
Mike successfully polled over 31,000 votes in the first election in May and, sadly, the vote led to a candidate being elected who was then immediately disbarred.
Independent candidates like Mike don’t have the luxury of funding from a political party. Mike’s previous campaign was successful on social media and with engagement with the local media. The time and expertise which went into this was supplied by a small team of volunteers or funded from his own pocket. That’s on top of the £5,000 he must pay out as a deposit to become a candidate.
The team around Mike believes to compete with other candidates, backed by political parties, he needs some financial support for marketing and advertising to allow him to reach more people across Wiltshire & Swindon – especially those who are not on social media or who don’t engage with the local media.
Mike feels uncomfortable about this - however despite his reservations has agreed it would be helpful.
Therefore, we've pledged to be very transparent about any money raised, and what it would be used for. There will be absolutely no pressure to donate anything, it will be a matter of personal choice.
Mike’s team will be managing this GoFundMe page. This money will be used for PR & marketing purposes to reach more people. Any money will be spent on leaflets, posters, banners, some social media support, and any other marketing activity deemed appropriate.
At the end of the election period, the team will publish what money was raised and how that money was spent. Any money left would be donated to a local charity. Mike will consult with his supporters as to which charity that should be.
Any business owner who wishes to donate – and who wishes to be openly included in any publicity – can be named. This will need to be discussed with Mike's media officer Fiona Scott by contacting her via email.
Any donor can choose to remain anonymous.
Mike's team will post on his social media about expenditure.
If elected as Police & Crime Commissioner Mike’s core aims will be:

A Stronger Presence

Safer Streets

Wise & Responsible Spending

Community Support