In our series of talks with local political figures, 999Kingsbridge's Nick Gibbens speaks to UKIP's Jeff Beer.

Jeff, a former Kingsbridge Conservative party member, was officially selected to fight the Totnes seat by the UK Independence Party's Totnes constituency association last year.

The 61-year-old, who has lived and worked in the Kingsbridge area for over 30 years, quit the Conservative party in 2007 because he became "disillusioned" with David Cameron's leadership.

In our exclusive interview, Jeff reveals all about local politics, wind farms, Nigel Farage, David Cameron, his reasons for leaving the Tories and why he joined UKIP.

What sets you apart from all the other candidates running for the Totnes constituency?
"Many things, before I decided to enter politics I have had a full and varied career which has included building successful businesses, a role as a magistrate, received an OBE for my services to the administration of justice, served the local community with pride and built a reputation as someone who gets things done. Now is the time to put my experience to good use for the benefit of all in the constituency whatever their political colour."

Apart from withdrawing the UK from the European Union, what else do UKIP stand for?
"Much, much, more, we feel very strongly that Britain would be so much better off outside Europe as do a growing number of people, but please do not get the idea we are a one issue party. We have policies on most of the major issues facing us today. For example, defence and our fishing policy is accepted as a real step in the right direction. There are many more examples which prove we are a real alternative to the major parties."

Are you the beneficiary of a protest vote?
"To a degree yes and what other party is prepared to offer the independent future we do."

What do UKIP intend to do to help the first-time buyer in the South Hams?
"When I was a district councillor I was the driving force behind the formation of an 'Affordable Homes Team' of officers whose role was to produce more affordable homes for local people. My own personal initiative was to find more land for this to happen. Even though I am no longer a councillor I am actively involved in finding more land and only yesterday I visited a potential site on the outskirts of Kingsbridge. I will be re-visiting another site tomorrow."

Why did you leave the Tories for UKIP?
"I did not actually leave the Conservatives for UKIP; I had already decided to leave the council and local politics early in 2007. I left the council with many compliments ringing in my ears from all parties for my efforts as the Salcombe Harbour Board chairman, chairman of the Licensing Committee, chairman of the Policy Development Group and a member of the Standards Committee amongst others. When it became known that I was not seeking re-election as a councillor I also received an unprecedented number of letters from my ward constituents and others in the South Hams area thanking me for the work I put in on their behalf. It was some months later that I joined UKIP because I could not and will not just sit back and do nothing if I believe things are wrong. Also, after listening to a number of young people it was obvious that they wish to govern themselves in the future and not be increasingly governed by Europe and I will work hard on behalf of everybody to make sure this does not happen."

What can be done to keep more young people in the area?
"I would encourage those young people who wish to leave to continue their education to do so but when they wish to come back let us welcome them with homes they can afford, jobs which are better paid and make sure their views are understood and make them feel a part of the community. If they do not wish to leave, great, let’s make sure that incentives are in place for them to have apprenticeship opportunities. Local business is encouraged to employ them and we provide facilities which they can enjoy. A real challenge and one I welcome. Let us not forget our traditional industries which would be hugely boosted if we could run them without the interference of Europe, this would create many opportunities for young people to remain in the area."

Do you think Kingsbridge needs two supermarkets?
"When I was a councillor I worked tirelessly for Waitrose to be the second supermarket and having left that possibility evaporated. It is now to be Tesco which will be a disaster for the town unless the current councillors insist that the planning approval contains limitations on the items they are allowed to sell."

What can be done to engage more young people into local politics?
"Not only in local politics but all politics young people feel, with justification, that their views do not count, so for example, why are council meetings not held in schools and colleges so young people can see democracy in action. Also, if I am elected I will expect each school, college, young people's organization and others to select a representative and I would report back monthly on issues which are to be discussed in parliament affecting young people so I can represent their views more effectively."

How would you get South West Water to lower its sky-high water rates?
"It is grossly unfair that we are expected to pay three times as much as people living in other parts of the country and yet holidaying in the South Hams. The inequality should have been tackled years ago and I am delighted the Government is to hold an urgent review. I want to see an incentive given to those who conserve water and a safety net in place for those on lower incomes who are struggling now to pay their water bills. We are being seriously affected by having to pay to keep our fabulous coastline clean for everybody to enjoy, not just those who live here, this has to be a charge which is levied nationally and more fairly. The review must be undertaken very quickly. I hope our present MPs keep up the pressure, after all they have had long enough."

Do you think council tax rates are too high in the South Hams?
"Yes I do and, unfortunately, this will continue until central Government stops heaping more responsibilities and costs on local authorities. Some people are suggesting a local income tax, this I believe is yet a further tax which is unnecessary. Less local government and less cost is needed and the savings passed to the tax payer."

Do you think wind farms are the way forward?
"In the right place yes, as part of a package of measures to produce our energy needs."

What do you think off Gordon Brown’s performance as PM so far?
"Very average, things just seem to drift and he certainly does not have control over his ministers or their actions (or their expenses!) and his insistence there will not be a referendum on the proposed EU Constitution having promised a referendum at the last election is nothing short of scandalous."

What progress do you think your leader Nigel Farage has made to the party?
"As we progress to the next election Nigel's credentials will become obvious. A clear thinker with real conviction."

Why did you become "disillusioned" with David Cameron's leadership?
"I think we lack real leadership in all the major parties and the country is crying out for someone to challenge the major issues head on. Crime, the economy, immigration….the list is endless."

Who would you like to see become the next president of the USA and why?
"John McCain or Barack Obama because America needs to sort out its economy, which will benefit the rest of the world and also have a much more analytical approach before it rushes headlong into wars such as Iraq."

Who is your greatest political hero?
"I have a few; it is those who put the people before themselves or their party."

What would you have done as a career if you had not become interested in politics?
"I would have loved to have been a farmer."

What is your greatest political achievement to date?
"That is for others to decide, there are many."

If you could change one thing about this world, what would it be?
"All weapons of mass destruction were eradicated tomorrow and the money saved was spent on an improvement in worldwide healthcare."

What did you eat for tea last night?
"Homemade cottage pie, fresh local vegetables and rhubarb pie. Fortunately, Fiona, my lovely wife, is a great cook."

What is your favourite food?
"Roast Beef, local vegetables, very crispy roast potatoes, home made apple pie and Devonshire cream (lots!!) I also love our local fish and shellfish."

What is your favourite TV programme?
"I do not watch much television as I am often busy at meetings in the evenings, but when I am able, I enjoy top quality live sport and appreciate being able to watch the news at anytime."

What car do you drive?
"A Ford Focus."

What is your relationship status?
"I am married to Fiona with a family of four, Tom (24) Charlotte (24) Rachel (21) and Oliver (19); they are all tremendous and keep my feet firmly on the ground!"

What are your hobbies?
"I don't have much time for serious hobbies, but I love to travel and above all spending quality time with Fiona and the family."