Four Candidates Challenge Independent Incumbent In Island Council Seat

Four candidates are challenging independent councillor Mark Jefferies in his bid for re-election in Wroxall, Lowtherville and Bonchurch, after he won the seat by a 248-vote margin last summer.

Mr Jefferies, who sits with the Alliance group at County Hall, is being opposed by David Groocock (Conservative), Jonathan Howard Idle (Green Party) and Ruby Monteath (Reform UK).

David Groocock highlights his long involvement in Island tourism and business, including roles with local industry organisations, and says he has also worked on efforts to address landslip risks between Bonchurch and St Lawrence.

Green candidate Jonathan Howard Idle, who has lived in Ventnor for around 15 years, says he wants to bring a strong environmental focus alongside wider social solutions, and works supporting young people leaving care.

Mark Jefferies says he is proud to have represented residents over the past ten months, pointing to ongoing challenges such as major roadworks in Wroxall, and says he will continue to make strong representations if re-elected.

Reform UK candidate Ruby Monteath says she is standing to give a voice to younger people and working residents, arguing they are often overlooked in decisions on housing, jobs and the Island’s future.