Five Candidates Vie For Cowes South And Northwood Seat Ahead Of Local Elections

Four major political parties and an independent candidate are standing in Cowes South and Northwood ahead of the local elections on 7 May.

Conservative councillor John Nicholson is seeking re-election, alongside Reform UK’s Gordon Adam, Labour’s Wayne Doidge, Independent Monique Gallop and Liberal Democrat Bob Packham.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited candidates to submit 100-word pitches. Their responses are below, in no particular order.

Gordon Adam (Reform UK)

Gordon Adam retired in 2021 and moved to Cowes, where he says he has enjoyed becoming part of the community.

He is a member of a local sailing club and volunteers weekly at the Cowes Food Bank, giving him insight into challenges faced by residents.

He says he is committed to being a hard-working and approachable advocate for the community and local businesses.

Wayne Doidge (Labour)

Wayne Doidge has worked as a teacher for more than 20 years, both on and off the Island, and is involved in the RAF section of the Combined Cadet Force.

He currently commutes to Portsmouth and says this gives him first-hand experience of cross-Solent travel issues.

Monique Gallop (Independent)

Monique Gallop says she is standing as an independent to focus solely on what is best for the community, free from party influence.

She says she would be visible and approachable if elected, working closely with residents and local organisations to deliver practical solutions and ensure the community has a strong voice.

John Nicholson (Conservative)

John Nicholson, the current ward councillor, says his background in running a successful construction business has given him strong problem-solving skills.

Born and raised in the area, he highlights his role as Mayor of Cowes, where he helped drive the Cowes and Northwood Place Plan in partnership with councillors, stakeholders and Southampton University.

Bob Packham (Liberal Democrat)

Bob Packham has lived in East Cowes for nearly 15 years and has served as a town councillor for eight years.

He previously worked as an engineer with British Rail for three decades.

His campaign focuses on protecting green spaces and preventing sewage discharges into the Solent.