Two-Horse Race In Parkhurst And Hunnyhill As Deputy Council Leader Faces Reform Challenge

Liberal Democrat deputy leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Andrew Garratt, is facing a contest from Reform UK in the Parkhurst and Hunnyhill ward ahead of the local elections.

Mr Garratt is being challenged by Reform UK candidate Alan Stay as voters prepare to head to the polls in the Island-wide council elections.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service invited both candidates to submit 100-word statements and photos ahead of polling day.

Here is what they said, in their own words:

Andrew Charles William Garratt (Liberal Democrat, incumbent councillor)

Cllr Garratt says he has worked hard to be a councillor who listens to residents and takes action on their behalf.

He says he is standing for re-election to continue delivering ongoing priorities, including upgrades to council-owned prison estate roads and improvements to road safety such as the Horsebridge Hill speed limit.

He also highlights plans for more play equipment at Hookes Way play area, improvements to public spaces, and environmental protection from the Medina through to Parkhurst Forest.

He adds he is committed to tackling poverty, supporting cost of living pressures, and delivering more affordable housing to rent and buy.

Alan Stay (Reform UK)

Mr Stay says he is standing because he cares deeply about the area he has lived in all his life.

He says he believes the current council has shown disregard for public opinion and argues that needs to change.

He describes himself as “an ordinary person” who has become frustrated with what he sees as wasted public money, and says he wants to take action rather than complain.

He adds that he wants to help protect and preserve the Island for future generations.