Four contenders from Reform UK, Labour, The Green Party and the Local Conservatives hope to be the Isle of Wight councillor for Newchurch, Havenstreet and Ashey.
Tony Barry (Reform UK), Anna Maria Beach (Labour Party), Jude Brown (The Green Party) and Raj Patel (Local Conservatives are looking to replace outgoing representative for the rural East Wight ward, Clare Mosdell.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) contacted candidates for 100-word pitches and photos, either directly or through parties or groups in advance of the 7th May elections.
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Tony Barry
I live in Havenstreet village and serve the community as a Havenstreet and Ashey parish councillor. Most significantly I’ve spearheaded a campaign to get Havenstreet back on the bus network and represented residents’ interests in dealing with the all too frequent disruption caused by roadworks in the village and surrounding area.
This will become my aim for the entire ward of Newchurch, Havenstreet and Ashey. This ward is a great mix of larger villages and small hamlets.
There are many thriving communities and businesses which deserve a representative at County Hall who will put their interests first at every opportunity.
Anna Maria Beach
“Anna Beach has lived in the ward for the last 13 years and loves the area and surrounding countryside. Anna says: “I firmly believe that although new homes are necessary, they should be affordable and planned wherever possible on land that isn’t detrimental to either the rurality of the area or necessary for crop-growing. Additionally, wherever possible, new homes should have access to reliable transport links.”
Jude Brown
“I am a proud Islander who grew up next to Branstone Farm, went to Newchurch Primary School and got married at All Saints church. I have a deep love for our countryside and the communities that care for it.
“Through my work as a development manager at a conservation charity, I understand both the environmental challenges we face and the everyday pressures affecting Island families – from rising costs and transport issues, to education and healthcare.
“I want to work with the council to deliver practical solutions that put people first, strenthen our local services, and protect the Island we all call home.
Raj Patel
“I’m a dedicated local businessman and community advocate. I have proudly served our Island for many years. My experience includes two successful years as Mayor of Sandown, where I focused on regeneration, and serving as a proactive town councillor for Newchurch. Additionally, I hold the position of deputy mayor of Shanklin, bridging the gap between residents and local government.
“My background in business gives me a practical, results-driven approach to community issues. I am committed to protecting our environment, enhancing public spaces, and fostering a thriving local economy, whilst always putting people before politics and working hard for our community.
Look out for other stories on the various Isle of Wight wards
Is it fair or just, to allow the Labour Party candidate to display political ‘advertising’ material, but not the other candidates?
I can’t help feeling that with a Labour Prime Minister currently up against it, a Labour MP should be at Westminster and not meddling in Local Authority elections. Neither of the Islands MPs have covered themselves in glory by remaining as Councillors after being elected to Westminster.