I've stood for council in my younger days BM and know what you're going through. (No. I didn't get in either time).
I've always voted for the same party over the last 50 years and agree there is a difference between local and national politics.
Quite frankly, for the first time ever, I am at a loss as to which way I will vote in the next general election. I'm completely disillusioned with all parties at the moment.