An ambitious mother is hoping to shake up the two-horse race between Boris Johnson and Ken Livingstone in this year’s mayoral election.

Siobhan Benita quit her high flying job in Whitehall after 15 years in a bid to become London’s next Mayor, a role she thinks should represent people, not political parties.

The independent candidate said she became frustrated as a senior official in the cabinet office because she had to remain apolitical, but if elected will ensure that all voices are heard.

She said: “We have fallen into the trap of thinking the Mayoral race has to be a party political but it can actually be more effective if it isn’t.

“I think people want an alternative, or it’s the same old two-horse race.”

The 40-year-old, who was born in Wimbledon and grew up in Motspur Park with her Anglo-Indian mum and Cornish dad, has devoted her time to improving diversity and gender equality.

She said her husband and two daughters, who have lived in New Malden for six years, have been a great support.

She said: “They have never said ‘what are you doing?’ and they have all really helped. The girls get really involved, which is one of the nice things about this; it is so good for them to see a woman doing this sort of thing.

“I am really excited, slightly tired, but to be honest my biggest challenge is to get myself known. You just need that one break, but I wouldn’t be doing it if I wasn’t serious.”

Mrs Benita’s pledges include improving cycle safety, taking a zero tolerance approach to litter and graffiti, addressing the growing fox problem and free bus travel for jobseekers and parents with toddlers.

She also wants to introduce a Free London day where residents can travel for free and enjoy offers in restaurants, shops and attractions.

The elections for the Mayor of London will be held on Thursday, May 3.