The Five Islanders Hoping To Be The Next Central Rural County Councillor
- Rufus Pickles
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Five Islanders are looking to replace Suzie Ellis as the Isle of Wight councillor for the Central Rural ward at a by-election on May 1.
County Hall has confirmed the final list of candidates: Bob Blezzard (Liberal Democrats), Caroline Gladwin (Reform UK), Simon Haytack (Labour), Julia Laursen (Green Party) and
Simon Richards (Conservative Party).
The Central Rural ward covers villages including Godshill, Arreton, Rookley and Chillerton.
Life coach, therapist and Chillerton and Gatcombe parish councillor Julia Laursen said:
“I’m a firm believer in working together – I often believe we become too stuck with our party politics.
"That’s not what the public want us to do – they want us to work for the greater good for the ward.
“You’ve got to listen to the people, find out what’s there – not just say ‘well I’m here if you need me’ – what action can I take?
“I was particularly motivated again to stand when I thought of how all the different factions got together on the fracking, for example, in Arreton.
“I’m a local person – I’ve got skin in the game – I live in Chillerton. I worked really hard on trying to save Chillerton and Rookley Primary School.”
Public sector professional Simon Richards previously said:
“With my background in public sector finance and charity work, I have the experience to get things done and ensure our voices are heard.
“I’ll work tirelessly to protect our children’s rights to a top-quality education. Education is the foundation of a brighter future, and we must invest in it to ensure every child has the chance to succeed.
“Too many lives are at risk from speeding and phone use on rural roads. I’ll push for better enforcement, traffic-calming measures, and investment in our infrastructure.
“We need safer roads to protect our families and ensure a safer environment for everyone.”The five Islanders hoping to be the next Central Rural county councillor
Simon Haytack, Caroline Gladwin and Bob Blezzard have been approached for comment.
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