Four Candidates Standing In Newchurch, Havenstreet And Ashey Election

Voters in Newchurch, Havenstreet and Ashey will have four candidates to choose from at the upcoming Isle of Wight Council elections on May 7.

Standing in the rural East Wight ward are Tony Barry (Reform UK), Anna Maria Beach (Labour), Jude Brown (Green Party) and Raj Patel (Local Conservatives).

The seat is being contested following the departure of councillor Clare Mosdell.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited all candidates to submit a 100-word statement ahead of polling day.

Reform UK candidate Tony Barry did not provide a statement.

Labour candidate Anna Maria Beach has lived in the ward for 13 years and says she values the local countryside.

She believes new housing is necessary but says it should be affordable and carefully planned to avoid impacting farmland and rural character, while ensuring access to reliable transport links.

Green Party candidate Jude Brown is an Islander who grew up in the area and works as a development manager at a conservation charity.

She highlights concerns including the cost of living, transport, education and healthcare, and says she wants to focus on practical solutions that support residents while protecting the environment.

Conservative candidate Raj Patel is a local businessman who has previously served as Mayor of Sandown and as a town councillor in Newchurch.

He is currently deputy mayor of Shanklin and says his priorities include supporting the local economy, protecting the environment and improving public spaces.

The election will take place on May 7.