Reform UK, Labour And Local Conservatives Enter Race To Succeed Geoff Brodie In Pan And Barton

Reform UK, Labour and the Local Conservatives are all fielding candidates in the race to replace Pan and Barton’s long-serving Isle of Wight councillor Geoff Brodie.

Mr Brodie has represented the ward since 2005 and is stepping down at the upcoming Isle of Wight Council elections on May 7.

Reform UK’s Martin John Bower, Labour’s Stephen John Reading, and Brian George Tyndall for the Local Conservatives have all put themselves forward for the seat.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited candidates to submit 100-word statements outlining their priorities ahead of the election.

Here is what they said, in their own words:

Martin John Bower (Reform UK)

Mr Bower says he returned to the Island in 2020 after careers in Excise and Customs and the Royal Mail, and now lives on the Pan Estate.

He says he has long-standing links to the ward and understands issues around anti-social behaviour, while also highlighting what he describes as a strong local community.

If elected, he says he would act with honesty and integrity and ensure residents’ concerns in Pan and Barton are heard and acted upon.

Stephen John Reading (Labour)

Mr Reading says he raised his family in Newport and has grandchildren attending Barton School.

He is involved in a range of voluntary work, including at the Apollo Theatre, and has a background in business support and education.

He says he has worked with Island businesses and schools through periods of financial pressure and would use that experience as councillor.

He adds he wants to work with local people and businesses to help make the community a place residents can be proud of.

Brian George Tyndall (Local Conservatives)

No statement was provided.