Laurie is a District and Town councillor for Slade ward in Stroud.
She is the manager of Paganhill Community Centre at The Octagon. She grew up in Stroud, is a former Archway school student and lives at the top of town with her son Stanley.
We put Laurie under the spotlight
When are you at your happiest?
I am most happiest snuggled up on my sofa with my son or swimming in the sea.
What has been the scariest moment in your life?
When I was pregnant knowing I was going to be a single mum. It was scary but it has been my greatest and most enjoyable achievement.
What has been your biggest disappointment?
When David Drew lost the 2019 General Election. I was his Campaign Coordinator and felt a great responsibility. The campaign itself was filled with joy and loads of amazing people. I felt I’d let them and Stroud down.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Candy Crush.
Who is the most famous person in your phone?
Probably my Uncle, Ian Hart. He played Professor Quirrel in the first Harry Potter film and has been in loads of other great stuff.
What is your favourite smell?
The smell of my son’s head. But also I love the smell of jasmine.
Who would play you in a film about your life?
No idea! I absolutely love Maxine Peak.
What do you like most about living in the Stroud area?
The community and the gorgeous hills even if they are a nightmare to climb at times.
What would you improve about Stroud?
Public transport.
What is your ideal weekend?
Camping by the sea.
What is on your bucket list?
My top priority is learning to drive before I’m 40!
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
That resting is important and means you can do more and do it better.
What book and song would you take with you if stranded on an uninhabited island?
The song would be The Las – There She Goes. The book would have to be On the Road by Jack Kerouac.
