Interview with Gus
FIRST PERSON: GUS HOYT, ASHLEY WARD CANDIDATE
Read the interview with Gus.
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So, it's time to tell us all about yourself.
Ha! Well, actually this feels a little strange as I have only lived a small portion of my life so far. It feels a little egotistical…
That's very philosophical! How about starting with where you grew up?
I was born in the countryside next to a farm and have spent the longest period of my adult life living on Portland in Dorset. I've lived in many different environments and cultures, from Camden in the 1990s to rural Mexico. My parents are from very different cultural backgrounds which has helped in seeing there are always at least two different versions of the same reality.
Well, education is a hot topic at the moment. Tell me a bit about yours? Did you focus on green issues from a young age?
There is of course a large difference between formal and informal education. The day I stop learning is the day I die.
My first environmental action was a demo against adding fluoride to our drinking water which I attended at age eight.
However, my formal education includes three A levels in politics, history and art, a degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Hull and an MSc at the Centre of Alternative Technology in Powys. I guess you could say the interest in politics was always there and the realisation that being green was the only way to live grew from that.
That's an impressive list of qualifications. How about work?
Mostly, I have been a chef, line cook and kitchen manager and have always learnt that it is worth spending that little bit more (in both time and money) for local and if possible, organic produce. My mantra was local, organic and seasonable long before it became cool.
Building close relationships with my suppliers and keeping the money within the local economy was just plain commen sense really. Food may be "cheaper" at corporate stores, but what is the real cost?
I have always treated and respected my workmates as equal and expected the same of them. This leads to everyone pulling their weight and enjoying their time at work a whole lot more. Often productivity is greater and sick-days less.
Aside from being a chef, I've also spent an eight month stint as a cowboy in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and have been an apprentice paramedic dealing with some pretty grizzley stuff.
What I've learnt from these experiences has been invaluable in helping me appreciate the validity of people's different ways of living and working.
At the moment I am again working as a builder - this time helping to renovate a dilapidated Mill. This is only part-time and fits in around my various campaigns, and provides an essential physical balance to all the meetings I attend.
You sound like a great colleague – good news for Bristol City Councillors!
I am no stranger to long hard working conditions where full concentration is required at all times – I certainly believe this will be of benefit in the council chambers!
So you're ready for the realities of local politics?
Absolutely. While some criticise environmentalists for having their heads in the clouds, I have my feet firmly on the ground at all times. I have a strong practical streak and live in the real world - this will be essential as the decisions we make are not philosophical debates, but actions that do affect people's lives.
I am also involved in many different social and environmental groups throughout Bristol which gives me a better insight into what is important to local people.
Having held jobs ranging from cowboy to chef, how do you spend your free time?
Ha ha, that sound like a very leading question indeed!
I like cooking wearing my spurs..Ha ha., well...
Basically, I am constantly challenging myself to be and do better. My current hobby is beginners’ Parkour – or free running – where the built environment is seen as a playground and obstacles as exciting challenges.
I'm also a keen artist and have developed an individual style over the years and enjoy the commitment involved in drawing with a brush and Indian Ink rather than a fine pen.
You're clearly a man of many parts. Any final message to voters?
I hope to bring my wide breadth of experience and contacts together by representing the communities of Ashley and Greater Bristol in a formal capacity in the Council House after my election on May 5th.
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To contact Gus, email him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , give him a call on 07920 875785 or find him on Twitter @MrGreenGus.
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