Ex-Reform UK Isle of Wight councillor Caroline Gladwin is fighting to hold onto her Central Rural seat in a battle with the Greens, Reform and the Tories.
She is up against Julia Ann Laursen (The Green Party), Simon James Richards (Conservatives) and James Whelan (Reform UK), with voters due to head to the polls for the first Island-wide council election since 2021.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) asked candidates for a 100-word pitch to voters and photos, either directly or via parties and groups.
Caroline Anne Gladwin (incumbent ward councillor)
No response
Julia Ann Laursen
As the chair of Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council, I have led on creating an up-to-date emergency plan. Through my leadership, four parish councils are now collaborating via the Ward Liaison Group.
This has led to the exciting Greening Campaign which is seeing real results in Central Rural. I grew up in a Conservative supporting household, but I have always held strong environmental values.
I work as a coach, NLP trainer and therapist. It would be a real privilege to represent the communities of Central Rural, which has been my home for many years.
Simon James Richards
I have lived in Newport for 33 years and am proud to call the Island home. With 25 years’ public sector experience locally, I worked in business management across the NHS, council and police.
Now semi-retired, I divide my time between education governance consultancy and supporting local communities. I have served as a school governor for 15 years across six schools and am a trustee of a local charity.
This experience has strengthened my ability to work with partners, listen to concerns, solve challenging problems and represent those whose voices are often overlooked in decision-making.
James Whelan
Following a career in the Royal Engineers I returned to the Island and created two businesses. Through this I have established myself in the local economy, working closely with housing providers, councils, and private clients across the Island.
I operate within the agricultural sector, supporting local landowners with land management, drainage, and maintenance, giving me a clear understanding of the challenges facing farmers and rural communities.
I have seen first-hand where systems work well and where they fall short for
residents. If elected, I will focus on ensuring council services are fair, efficient, and responsive to residents’ needs.
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.
