Fairlee and Whippingham’s Conservative councillor since 2013, Matthew Price, has three opponents at the Isle of Wight Council elections of May 7.
Three candidates hope to take the seat from him: Cllr Sophus Magill of the Green Party, Liberal Democrat Patricia Margaret Packham and Reform UK’s John Wilson.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) asked candidates for 100-word pitches and images, either directly or through parties or groups, in advance of the vote.
Here’s what they had to say, in no particular order…
Sophus Magill
I was born on the Isle of Wight and currently I am a student at the Isle of Wight college. I serve as a parish councillor in Wootton Bridge. My main priorities are fighting sewage dumping in the Medina River, plus improving public services across the Island, particularly health and justice. I would be honoured to serve the people of Fairlee and Whippingham Ward as their county councillor.
Patricia Margaret Packham
I have lived in East Cowes for almost fifteen years. I am married with two grown up sons. I am retired and help out at the Beavers on Tuesdays, and before that at Brownies.
My hobbies are gardening and drawing cartoon characters, people and views. We have two adult cats, one is a Maine-Coon and the other is a Bengal. I stood for the Isle of Wight Council for Fairlee and Whippingham in 2021.
Matt Price
I have represented Fairlee and Whippingham since 2013 and have lived in Newport my whole life. I have been a school governor since 2012 and am also on Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council (NCCC) and also Whippingham Parish Council.
Also a trustee for a number of organisations and sit on numerous committees. I am currently vice chairman of the Isle of Wight Council’s planning committee. My record on the planning committee is also one of balance, while trying to address the local business and housing needs I have always tried to follow what local residents have asked me to do.
I have repeatedly voted against Council Tax rises. This includes the recent Council Tax rise for the Isle of Wight Council and also the huge rise for NCCC. It will be a privilege to continue to represent you after the May 7 election.
John Wilson
As a Newport resident I am happy to be standing for Reform UK as a candidate in the local elections this May. I am a Royal Navy veteran with a background built on discipline, duty, and a commitment to serving our country and community.
I want the opportunity to now offer my service to this ward by representing the residents of Fairlee and Whippingham as a robust, determined
councillor.
The traffic management on the Island is dire and residents in this ward are affected more than most. I give my assurance I will work hard to ensure Island Roads are accountable for their actions and scrutinised for decisions they make.
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.
