Planning committee member Claire Critichison is facing opposition in her Isle of Wight Council ward of Chale, Niton and Shorwell.
The Green Party incumbent councillor is in a contest to represent the area with Local Conservative candidate Anne Bishop and Mark Nigh of Reform UK.
Pitches of 100 words were sought from candidates by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) either directly or through parties or groups, ahead of the May 7 Isle of Wight Council elections.
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Anne Bishop
I have lived on the Island since 1983. My son was born at St Mary’s and educated in Ryde. For 26 years I ran a small hotel, and my partner was a farmer, giving me a strong understanding of both local business and rural life.
I enjoy walking my two dogs and spending time in our countryside, and I value our bridleways and cycle routes across Central Rural. I want to see the Island well run, with reliable services, careful spending, and a council that listens to residents and works to protect what makes our area such a special place.
Claire Leah Critchison (incumbent ward councillor)
I have been your Isle of Wight councillor for the last five years, after defeating the Conservative council leader in the last election. Since then, I have served as vice chair and then chair of the Isle of Wight Council as well as being on the planning committee.
I continue to volunteer my time on Niton and Whitwell Parish Council as well as running my own catering business. I live in Niton with my husband, two girls, ponies, chickens and our dog.
Mark Nigh
I was born on the Island and have had connections here all my life, only leaving to work for the Metropolitan Police Service. I returned here over 20 years ago and if elected I will draw on my lifetime of service keeping people safe and I will bring straight-talking, no-nonsense action to County Hall — cutting
waste, demanding real value for every pound of council tax, and delivering practical results on the ground.
My pledges for the ward are simple; real value for council tax, protecting our countryside and fixing the fundamentals – including safer roads, reliable buses and improved footpaths.
