Central Rural Seat Contested As Former Reform Councillor Faces Multi-Party Challenge

An ex-Reform UK Isle of Wight councillor is battling to retain her Central Rural seat in a four-way contest at the upcoming local elections.

Caroline Gladwin, who now sits as an independent after leaving Reform UK, is facing competition from Julia Ann Laursen (The Green Party), Simon James Richards (Conservatives) and James Whelan (Reform UK).

Voters will head to the polls in the first Island-wide council election since 2021.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) invited candidates to submit a 100-word pitch to voters, either directly or through their party or group, along with a photo.

Caroline Anne Gladwin (incumbent ward councillor)

No response.

Julia Ann Laursen

As chair of Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council, Julia Ann Laursen says she has led work to create an up-to-date emergency plan.

She adds that four parish councils are now collaborating through a Ward Liaison Group, which has helped launch a Greening Campaign delivering “real results” in Central Rural.

Laursen, who grew up in a Conservative-supporting household, says she has always held strong environmental values.

She works as a coach, NLP trainer and therapist and says it would be a privilege to represent the area, which has been her home for many years.

Simon James Richards

Simon James Richards says he has lived in Newport for 33 years and has 25 years’ experience working in the public sector locally.

His career has included business management roles across the NHS, the council and the police.

Now semi-retired, he works in education governance consultancy and supports local communities.

He has also served as a school governor for 15 years across six schools and is a trustee of a local charity.

He says this experience has helped him develop the skills to listen, solve problems and represent those whose voices are often overlooked.

James Whelan

No response.