My name is Ian Bradwell and I am standing for Westminster in Leicester West

I always thought I was a normal human being.

Until, that is, as a child, I realized that my visual impairment meant that I was told I was "handicapped". I always thought I was normal.

Then I had to go to a different school from my friends. I was not allowed to play football or ride a bike. In short there was a black cloud over my childhood.

Then after I left school I could not get a job and this negative cycle continued well into adulthood.

Then around the year 2000 I went completely blind. I was then approached and asked if I would like a guide dog. Within a year of getting my own dog the negative became more and more positive.

I soon joined the local Braunstone Commmunity Association, became a disability awareness trainer and joined the Leicestershire Centre for Integrated Living. I also became a member of the Liberal Democrats.

And now I am standing as a Lib Dem Candidate for Parliament in my local area. I am campaigning in opposition to all forms of discrimination. I feel that my own life experiences have been crucial in enabling me to do this.

Of course being a candidate is not easy. I can't just go out and canvass on my own. I need a sighted person with me as well as my trusty guide dog Iona.

I am a candidate because I feel the country needs a strong Lib Dem presence to counteract the extremism and bigotry of both left and right.

Ian Bradwell is the Lib Dem Candidate for Leicester West