The race to replace Richard Quigley MP as the councillor for Cowes North is being fought between Reform UK, the Conservatives, an Independent and the Labour Party.
Confirmed candidates include Ian Arnold (Reform UK), Siobhan Michelle Barney (Local Conservatives), Richard Edmunds Hollis (Independent) and Jock Rafferty (Labour).
A request for 100-word pitches and profile images was sent out to candidates by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), either directly or via parties or groups, in advance of the May 7 Isle of Wight Council elections.
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Ian Arnold
No response
Siobhan Michelle Barney
I have run my own London-based business for nearly three decades, although Cowes is very much my home. I have a passion for restoring old buildings so they are fit to serve the generations to come.
The latest of which was a two-year project, which is now my home in the heart of Cowes North. I’m a serving councillor for Cowes Town Council and since being elected I work to repay the faith that was shown to me every day by serving the best interest of our Cowes North community.
Richard Edmunds Hollis
A long-standing member of the local community, Richard has been a member of Cowes Town Council for five years and is currently chairman of planning and licensing.
Richard has huge, much-needed experience as a county councillor, he served for four years in Richmond upon Thames and then ten years on the Island in the Parkhurst and Newport (West) wards.
Richard is committed to providing strong, independent representation focused entirely on the needs and priorities of Cowes North.
Richard has long recognised the need to support our local marine and high-tech industrial sector. He will also focus on improving local services and supporting local retail businesses.
Jock Rafferty
Jock Rafferty has served as a Cowes Town Councillor since 2019 and currently chairs Cowes Town Council Projects, helping deliver real improvements for the people of Cowes.
From supporting local initiatives to improving public spaces, Jock is focused on getting things done that make a difference.
Jock says: “I care deeply about this community and want to continue making a real, positive impact for the people of Cowes. That’s why I’m standing for the Isle of Wight Council, to keep delivering and to always put Cowes first.”
