The Green Party, Tories and Reform UK are looking to take Ryde North West from the leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Phil Jordan.
Peter Burke of the Green Party, Reuben Burns Loake from Reform UK and Local Conservative Lou Temel have thrown down the gauntlet to Cllr Jordan who was elected the ward’s councillor in 2021.
The Alliance incumbent previously represented the ward from 2013 to 2017.
Pitches of 100 words and photos were sought from candidates, either directly or through parties or groups, by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Peter Burke
I will focus on getting the basics right: safe streets, reliable services and honest communication. With teenage sons currently studying at Lift Ryde, I have a real stake in the town’s future.
I will push hard for better value and higher standards from Island Roads; as someone who regularly travels to meetings in London, I know how residents, visitors and businesses are impacted by transport links, poor road surfaces and seemingly never‑ending diversions.
I will hold twice‑monthly surgeries and support practical, community‑led improvements. “Together we can get Ryde ready to be the UK’s first Town of Culture!”
Phil Jordan (incumbent ward councillor)
It’s been a privilege to represent the residents of Ryde North West for the past 13 years. I’ve worked hard to support residents with everyday issues, from housing and planning to local services, always trying to listen and follow through.
I’ve pushed for investment, better infrastructure, better services and support for our high street and town while also helping individuals through some difficult situations.
There’s still more to do, and if re-elected, I’ll continue working with honesty, energy, experience and determination to support you and keep Ryde a place we’re all proud to call home. Improving Ryde together.
Reuben Burns Loake
I am passionate about Ryde. Speaking to fellow residents and local businesses, it is clear that we need a fresh start after five years of managed decline and wasted resources that should be available to the town as a whole.
Working with the town council and Ryde Neighbourhood Board I’d focus on securing the return of public buildings – such as Ryde Theatre and the Ice Rink – for community use.
This must be with a costed business plan that gives value to local taxpayers; not more empty buildings weighing heavily on our already under pressure town finances.
Lou Temel
Hello, I’m Lou Temel. Many Islanders know me as a former headteacher and coach of Island Schools FA teams. As headteacher of Mayfield Middle, Ryde (1990–2000), the school was recognised for strong academic performance and success in sport, music and the arts.
I also helped co‑found the Island’s first Girls’ Football League. With 25 years of headship, I manage budgets responsibly, balancing ambition with financial reality.
Since retiring, I’ve chaired residents’ associations, served on parish and town councils, currently Ryde Town Council, and supported improved healthcare access. I live in Argyll Street and aim to be a voice for Ryde.
Find out who your local councillor is, how and where to vote and the results of previous elections at www.isleofwight.vote - the Island's new hub for all things related to Local and General Elections, brought to you by Island Echo.
