4 County Hall hopefuls are facing off in the rural Isle of Wight Council ward of Brighstone, Calbourne and Shalfleet.
Kim Frances Jeffreys (Local Conservatives), Vincent Hamilton Speed (Reform UK), Nick Stuart (Liberal Democrat) and Ed Surridge (Independent) are on the ballot paper for the May 7 local elections.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) requested 100-word candidate pitches and photos, either directly or via parties and groups, before the first Isle of Wight-wide County Hall poll since 2021.
Kim Frances Jeffreys
My husband and I have lived on our beautiful island for nearly 20 years. It’s our home. Before retiring to the Island, I led the international development team for a global logistics organisation, before working for an Island-based brain cancer charity for nine years.
I’m passionate about local affairs as it impacts the lives of so many, so it’s vital decisions are made for the right reasons and implemented by the appropriate services to deliver the best possible support to our communities.
Vincent Hamilton Speed
I’ve lived on the Isle of Wight my whole life and I’m standing for election because I believe the council needs a serious shake up. They are supposed to be the voice of the people, yet far too often they fail to listen. Decisions feel distant, disconnected, and made without proper regard for the everyday realities residents face.
I want to bring a practical, grounded voice to the council. Someone who understands real Island issues, who will challenge poor decisions, and always put local people first. My goal is simple: a council that listens, acts, and works for the whole community.
Nick Stuart (incumbent ward councillor)
As your councillor, I’m standing to carry on helping residents with their specific issues and our Island with its unique challenges.
With help from residents, council staff and many others, I’ve managed to improve the transport chaos caused by local large projects, tackle flooding prevention and push the council on planning enforcement, adult social care and Council Tax.
My group has stood up for common sense and fairness to reduce poverty, support local jobs and protect our environment, with my particular focus on protecting ancient woodland.
I will use my professional experience to put Islanders first, guided by evidence not ideology.
Ed Surridge
County councillors asked for your vote and get paid spending your money. If elected, I legally promise my £10,800 annual allowance for local volunteers assembly decision making.
Your neighbours, chosen randomly, funding local priorities with 80 per cent agreement normal. £43,200 over four years. I’m a trained assemblies coordinator, with 40 years of connection to this Island. No party whip. No vested interests.
Nurses have 93 per cent public trust, politicians the lowest at 11 per cent (IPSOS “professionals” poll). Democracy needs repair and best quality local assembly work. http://edsurridge.uk shares more.
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.
