Four Isle of Wight election candidates are contesting the Shanklin Central ward, held by councillor Michael Beston since 2017.
The Conservative incumbent’s three challengers are Robert May (The Green Party), Sarah Jane Morris (Independent) and Stephen Charles Reynolds (Reform UK).
Photos and 100-word pitches were sought from candidates, either directly or through parties or groups in advance of the May 7 poll.
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Michael Thomas Frank Beston
Since being elected in 2017, I have worked tirelessly for Shanklin Central, supporting local residents and businesses, safeguarding community assets, and ensuring your voices are heard at the Isle of Wight Council, and standing up for Shanklin.
With over 25 years running a local tourism business in the heart of Shanklin, I bring valuable real-world experience. As a trustee of Shanklin Theatre, I champion a vibrant cultural heart for our town, focusing on practical improvements such as the development of the new Shanklin Performing Arts Centre. On May 7, please return me as your councillor for Shanklin Central.
Robert May
I have been a Shanklin town councillor since 2017, serving a term as the town’s Mayor. My day-to-day job is as the deputy manager of the Southern Co-op in Regent Street as well as serving in the town’s main post office.
I sit on the Isle of Wight Bus and Rail Users Committee and am committed to improving transport across the Island. I have lived in the Bay Area for the last 25 years.
Sarah Jane Morris
I am the only candidate that actually lives in my ward. I have added my phone number to all my leaflets so that constituents can actually get hold of me, because that’s what matters.
I want to provide common-sense solutions to the problems that people face in Shanklin, and I will do my very best to achieve that. I know many want to send a message to Labour, but I urge voters to ensure that the candidate they vote for will work hard for them and understands what the role entails. A good councillor can really make a difference.
Stephen Charles Reynolds
I am currently a hotelier in Shanklin and I have lived on the Isle of Wight my whole life, having been the proprietor of numerous Island businesses over the years.
There are many reasons I am standing; the principle one being that the council is not delivering what the residents of Shanklin and the wider Island want and need.
Road closures should be better managed and parking policies relaxed to encourage footfall in our shops and businesses.
I want common sense solutions to return to County Hall and the council to develop a strategic business-model which benefits the Island’s community.
