Reigate and Banstead local election candidates 2021: Meet the people who want your vote

The 2021 local elections are just around the corner after some of them were delayed by a year due to the pandemic.

In Reigate and Banstead there are 18 seats up for grabs in 15 wards. Most wards have one seat being contested but in some there are two available - these are Earlswood and Whitebushes; Hooley, Merstham and Netherne; and Horley East and Salfords.

In May 2019, the Conservatives comfortably retained overall majority of the borough council, which has a total 45 elected members.

But with coronavirus changing so much in the past year, it is harder than ever to predict which candidates and parties will be successful.

SurreyLive asked all candidates running in the Reigate and Banstead Borough Council and Surrey County Council elections to sell themselves to voters in 100 words. You will find their bios listed below.

Reigate and Banstead elections

Banstead Village

Nadean Moses, Conservative

I am a proud resident of Banstead Village, and over the past year we've seen the true spirit of our community. By helping neighbours with shopping, collecting and delivering prescriptions, from putting poppies along the A217, I've seen that spirit first-hand and want to play my part by continuing as one of your councillors.

As a Commons Conservator, I know how important our wildlife is and that our outside spaces are valued by everyone. With working with businesses and schools and residents, we can all help to deliver our ambition to be less reliant on disposable plastic.

Sophie Rowlands, Green

Sophie says: "I am a local GP who feels passionately about social and environmental issues affecting the local community. I also feel it is important to give voters the option to vote for a party other than the two mainstream parties. The Green Party have a strong focus on important issues, including supporting our NHS, and taking a stand on environmental issues."

Jeremy Golding, Labour

No bio supplied.

Mark Johnston, Liberal Democrat

Originally from Cheshire, Mark has lived in the area for six years. He is an EU policy specialist with two decades working in Brussels on environmental protection legislation.

Mark joined the Lib Dems after the 2016 referendum and hopes to see Brexit reversed within a decade. His priority is helping local businesses recover after the 'double-whammy' of the pandemic and dishonest Tory rule that has, for example, left the City financial services industry hit hard.

Mark also wants to transform local mobility by making walking, cycling, buses and trains all more popular alongside fewer and cleaner private cars.

Chipstead, Kingswood and Woodmansterne

Woodmansterne Recreation Ground in Woodmansterne Lane (Image: Steve Porter / SurreyLive)

Caroline Neame, Conservative

Chipstead, Kingswood and Woodmansterne are great places to live and work, with a mixture of homes dispersed between the beautiful green belt, which we all treasure and must fight to protect.

We need to build quality affordable housing for our children, which enhance not diminish the local area and protect our young and vulnerable residents by ensuring services required are available.

A fine balance which can only be achieved if the council and community work together. If re-elected, I promise to continue to fight your causes and be your voice within the council.

Jennie Pope, Green

No bio supplied.

Cathy Davis, Labour

Previously a science teacher, I will qualify this year as a physiotherapist. I am passionate about our NHS and looking forward to playing a part in its future. I also volunteer for St John Ambulance and Banstead Woods parkrun.

A Chipstead resident for over eight years, I regularly enjoy running and walking in the local countryside. Protecting and nurturing the natural environment, both locally and globally, is important to me. If elected, I would work hard for changes that improve equality and opportunity for everyone.

Earlswood and Whitebushes (two councillors being elected)

A view towards Hooley Lane in Earlswood (Image: Ian Stronge)

Barbara Thomson, Conservative

I care deeply about our community and have always worked hard to deal with residents' worries and various concerns. I recognise the lack of activities for our young people and will do my utmost to work with partners to rectify this.

I live in Whitebushes, and so I'm well placed to understand important local issues. I want to keep our communities safe, to work hard on getting improved local junctions, and better local road networks for all road users.

Being a councillor is about being visible and active locally, both things I will continue to do if elected.

Chris Reynolds, Conservative

My name is Chris Reynolds and I have lived in Earlswood & Whitebushes for the last seven years. I moved to Merstham back in 1977 and then to Reigate before Ashtead where I lived for 16 years and spent 8 years on Mole Valley District Council so I know what is involved in being a councillor.

I retired last September so have the time, the energy and the support of my wife. Please elect Reynolds and Thomson. I promise to represent all the people of the ward, not just those who vote for me. I want to help you all.

Della Torra, Green

Della moved to Earlswood in 2007 with her husband. Their two children attend local state primary and secondary schools. Della enjoyed a career in television and publishing, particularly as an adjudicator and editor for Guinness World Records.

She's actively involved with Earlswood and St John's Community Speed Watch, and says: "My concerns are traffic calming, clearer and better signage for drivers and pavements free of obstructions making it safer for all pedestrians and road users. I'm committed to local issues and keen to improve facilities and open spaces within Earlswood and Whitebushes, and introducing more walking and cycling opportunities."

Joseph Booton, Green

Joseph lives and grew up locally, works in Reigate and performs Punch and Judy shows across Surrey, including at the Earlswood Carnival.

Joseph is committed to protecting our local parks and open spaces from development, standing up for vital public services and fighting for affordable housing. Joseph will be an independent voice on the council.

Mark Scott, Labour

As a nurse of more than 30 years working in the mental health sector, I am more than aware the damage this pandemic has caused to local residents. Two thirds of schools around the country, for example, fund their own programs with the mental health of students and staff deteriorating significantly.

This is unacceptable and if elected, I will work with local organisations to establish Wellbeing Hubs in the neighbourhood beginning with Earlswood and Whitebushes. Making access to mental health services easier is a high priority that is desperately needed in the borough.

Rex Giles, Labour

I have lived in Earlswood for 30 years and following retirement, became a volunteer with various charities. It's the NHS and our key workers that I feel are critical to help rebuild our communities and am proud that Labour councils across the country went above and beyond helping their communities during the pandemic.

It is vital we protect our public services, our local business, our public transport and high streets. I will work with local people as I want Earlswood to be a great place to grow up, a great place to grow old and a great place to live.

Hooley, Merstham and Netherne (two councillors being elected)

Frank Kelly, Conservative

I have served as a borough councillor since 2011 and been involved in many projects. We have had a major redevelopment in Merstham including housing, shops and the hub.

This continues with the recreation ground. I was also involved with the redecoration and improvement works at the war memorial and helped a local business to start up a much-needed replacement post office.

I am currently chair of licensing and regulatory and sit on the planning committee. If elected on 6th May I will continue to work within the local community helping to provide a voice for them.

Mus Tary, Conservative

I am standing in my home ward of Hooley, Merstham and Netherne. I want to connect with the local community and make a difference to people's lives in the area. I will make sure your voice is heard in the council.

I also want to start a local jobs club where people can come and seek advice about their CV, job interviews and how to search for jobs.

Soo Abram, Green

Soo is a graphic designer who has lived in Redhill for over 30 years. She says: "Sound environmental policy, freedom, fairness and social justice are entirely compatible with the success of the business sector, local communities and the country as a whole.

"The shift away from these values by the mainstream parties is already damaging society. The Green Party has the vision, policies and will to re-establish these values."

Ian Thirlwall, Labour

As a qualified engineer and having lived in the local area for over 45 years, the M23 - A23 expansion project in Hooley has concerned me for a long time.

Local people and businesses can rely on me to represent their concerns at council level to prevent a potential road safety and environmental disaster, leading to increased air pollution and deaths. Significant investment is needed for Surrey's roads, particularly to implement a better & safer cycle lane network across the county.

"In Surrey we don't drive on the left of the roads, we drive on what's left of the roads."

Shaka Nahom, Labour

I have called Merstham home now for over 15 years. When the Covid lockdown first came into effect, I worked with local residents to set up a mutual aid group. I was delighted but not surprised at the community spirit that I saw at the time.

"Serving as a school governor in my local primary school keeps me in touch with things that matter to our local community. Schools in Merstham are under-funded. In Netherne they do not exist. I will press for our communities to have the investment we need to provide outstanding education and preschool facilities."

Jemma De Vincenzo, Liberal Democrat

Jemma lives locally in Merstham. She chose to set up home in a community that benefits from green spaces and community facilities, viewing this as the perfect place to raise a family.

As an NHS clinician working with schools, young people, and families daily, Jemma recognises the pressure services are under and the fight families face to get the support they need.

She's passionate about ensuring children and young people have the best start in life by protecting valuable services and promoting joined-up working so that all children can have a brighter future.

Horley Central and South

The northern end of Horley high street (Image: Surrey Live - Grahame Larter)

Christian Stevens, Conservative

I have served Horley Central since 2014, and then the new ward of Horley Central and South since 2019. Serving the very ward and town where I grew up, educated, worked and still reside in is my proudest achievement.

With my Horley Conservative colleagues, we've secured new investment that I am really excited for: the Delivering Change in Horley Town Centre scheme, the solution to the long term issue of subway flooding and the soon-to-be-opened cafe in the recreational park. I hope to be re-elected to ensure these positive changes come to fruition.

William Watson, Green

William is an accountant and auditor. He lives in the borough with his wife and daughter. William says: "Sustainability on a global level starts locally and the environmental impact needs to be the key driver in the decisions taken by local councils, looking to the future, not the past. The Green Party is the only party that will do this."

Tom Turner, Labour

I am a lifelong Horley resident who attended local schools before completing my degree at the University of Oxford. Following Covid, I have recently changed careers to work in public health data science.

I love our town and I want to fight for the public services that help our most vulnerable (and all other) residents and the investment required to fix our public infrastructure. I continue to oppose efforts to remove the last remaining green space between Horley and Gatwick Airport, and I want to work to these ends as a borough and county councillor.

Horley East and Salfords (two councillors being elected)

James Baker, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Andrew King, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Shasha Khan, Green

Shasha is a Domestic Energy Assessor. He lives in the borough with his wife and two young daughters. He says: "I have a strong track record in representing our community. In 2014 I challenged a neighbouring council in the High Court for approving an application to build a health-damaging incinerator.

"The Conservatives are sitting on a massive majority on the council, which is unhealthy for democratic accountability."

Lynette Easterbrook, Labour

My family and I have been happy to call Horley our home for 28 years. I have more than two decades of experience in Higher Education, where I've been responsible for developing pastoral support, mental health and wellbeing strategies for students, promoting equality and diversity, and managing departmental budgets.

As a former trustee of a pension scheme and board member for a major building project, I gained experience in planning and maintaining responsible finances while ensuring end-users' needs are met. People are at the heart of all I do. I enjoy singing, art, and running (slowly!) in my spare time.

Tom Latter, Labour

I am a resident of the Acres estate in east Horley where I am standing and adore the local area. Professionally I have a senior position at a geophysical services company which entails enhanced problem solving, project management and client relations skills which I would put to great use in bringing about positive change for the local community.

I am a conscientious individual whose core values are compassion, integrity and equality of opportunity for all. Personally, I enjoy country walks, reading, volunteering but most of all spending quality time with my young son who's at school in Horley.

Horley West and Sidlow

Giorgio Buttironi, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Cecilia Hughes, Labour

Before retiring, I worked for many years at East Surrey Hospital as a Community Paediatrician. Recently, I've returned to work to support the vaccination programme. I am a strong believer in public services, equal opportunities and a fair distribution of resources to support everyone in society.

I have a particular interest in children's health and education, having been the Designated Medical Officer for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability for Surrey. I am also a trustee and volunteer at children's bereavement charity Jigsaw SE. I would welcome the opportunity to serve the people of Horley West and Sidlow.

Geoff Southall, Liberal Democrat

Long standing resident of Horley, Geoff has stood as a Liberal Democrat candidate in Horley West on several occasions. He has been a Surrey county councillor.

He's insistent about the full consideration of the economic, safety, noise and climate change implications of any proposals that make significant change to Gatwick.

Lower Kingswood, Tadworth and Walton

Shops on Cross Road, Tadworth (Image: Surrey Mirror / Grahame Larter)

Zelanie Cooper, Conservative

As a local resident, I am passionate about our community voice as well and strongly believe in equability of opportunities. We are slowly emerging, as a county, from exceedingly difficult times which has seen a rise in community enterprises, whilst other businesses have struggled.

I am also committed to preserving our amazing village identities and believe that it is vital that we protect our communities. People are the heart of our communities, I will be working closely with the people in our communities alongside existing councillors to build on the amazing work they have done.

Jake Peet, Green

No bio supplied.

David Burnley, Labour

A retired computer engineer, I am also a proud Army Veteran and want to use my experiences I was taught in the military to serve the local community.

My abiding passion is to support the heroes in our NHS, many who worked unpaid hours during the COVID pandemic. Surely after what they've gone through, a 1% pay increase is an insult.

A vote for Labour at any level, national or local, is a vote that supports our nurses, and if elected, I intend to ensure our local key workers are rewarded.

Chris Thompson, Liberal Democrat

Christopher has lived in the area for the past 7 years with his wife and 8-year-old daughter. A financial columnist by background, he joined the Liberal Democrats in 2019 and takes a particular interest in policies designed to boost businesses and grow the economy in a more inclusive way.

He is a volunteer at the Trussell Trust foodbank, a keen footballer and outdoor swimming enthusiast.

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Meadvale and St. John's

Jonathan White, Conservative

I've lived in the borough for over 30 years and the Meadvale & St. John's ward for nearly 20. If re-elected (I served in 2018/19), I will support the council's work on litter, pavement parking, protecting our parks and countryside, and its environmental agenda.

I also hope to join the council's independent Overview & Scrutiny Committee. I will be an active voice for Redhill town centre where I work and for small business in general. Above all, I will listen to residents, take their concerns to the council and do everything I can to resolve them.

Mark Smith, Labour

I work in the entertainment industry and have lived in Redhill for many years. I am a member of the union Unite and firmly support everyone having the right to live and work in a healthy and safe environment.

I am committed to improving access to affordable and safe housing and am frustrated at the lack of affordable housing in Redhill. I have closely followed the cladding scandal in Noble House, Redhill, and if elected I'll assure all social renters in the area have their voices heard at council level to help prevent events like this happening again.

Martin Elbourne, Liberal Democrat

Martin has lived in Redhill for 25 years. He's worked in the live music industry for over 40 years. Martin is best known for his work with Glastonbury Festival and co-founding the Great Escape and Womad festivals.

He also works as an advisor to various governments and cities on their music strategies. Martin is keen on helping to create a more vibrant Redhill town centre particular its evening economy.

As a dog owner he's very aware of the poor conditions of many of our local paths in our open spaces. Improving these would be a priority for him as councillor.

Alastair Richardson, UK Independence Party (UKIP)

My working life was in I.T. and I was a freelance consultant for the final twenty years. I have supported several charities both locally and nationally and have served as secretary and treasurer in voluntary organisations.

Having raised three children in Redhill I understand the need for youth services and for safety on the streets. I will support environmental issues and in particular the installation of more public electric vehicle charging points in residential areas.

I will also campaign for the reform of our inequitable electoral system and will advocate the use of the D'Hondt system as in European elections.

Nork

Jane Illingworth, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Calli Mistry, Labour

I am a recently retired biochemistry lecturer and have lived in Nork with my family for 33 years. My two sons attended the local primary school and through them I experienced the local children's facilities (football, Banstead cricket club, drama classes at the Nork community centre).

I therefore truly feel part of the local community and care about local issues, particularly those related to health and social services. I am also passionate about the environment and its effects on our health and wellbeing. If elected, I will fight on your behalf for the improvement of local services and the environment.

Claude Knights, Liberal Democrat

Claude is a committed professional working on family and child protection issues. She wants to see a fair and equitable society where all sectors of the community are given the same opportunities to achieve their full potential.

If elected, Claude pledges to do her best for the constituents of Nork. The Liberal Democrat principles of being fair, green, and caring reflect universal values and provide a solid moral compass.

She will highlight the inadequacies of the Conservatives and their policies, which demean the NHS, fail to manage Covid-19, fail the police service, and fail the country through Brexit.

Pete Harp, Nork Residents' Association

As the Nork Residents' Association candidate for Nork I intend to continue to do my best for my fellow Nork residents, building on what I have already achieved as your councillor.

I will serve my residents by preserving and enhancing all that is good in Nork for the benefit of both local residents and the environment.

I have been a Nork resident for over 50 years and will continue putting the welfare of my fellow residents first, voicing their views at council. We do not believe local councils should be the place for party politics.

Redhill East

Redhill Memorial Park in the autumn (Image: Grant Melton Photography)

Shysta Manzoor, Conservative

I have lived in Redhill all my life and successfully developed strong connections with the local community, businesses and organisations as a community leader. The best way to look after where we live is through working with residents and holding community events.

My experiences working in family law drive me to keep the interests of children and young people at the forefront, so I will engage with our younger residents and help create better opportunities for them. I love bringing people together, so I promise to do this at Redhill East.

Sue Sinden, Green

Sue is a retired nurse and community activist. She has lived in Redhill since the 1960s and brought up her family here. Sue has been a borough councillor for two years, is a council rep on Age Concern Merstham Redhill and Reigate, and is actively engaged on many local issues, from tackling litter, car parking and fly-tipping, to pushing for PPE for hospital workers, and cladding on flats in Redhill.

Mick Hay, Labour

I served 22 years in the Royal Corps of Signals and was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan on many occasions. Since leaving the Army, I have continued to keep close links with military charities. I am aware of the difficulties many veterans have to deal with including mental health concerns and homelessness.

If elected I will fight for our ex-servicemen and women to be treated with dignity and respect. Labour councils across the UK have Armed Forces Leisure Cards giving service personnel and veterans free access to council leisure facilities. I aim to see this implemented in Reigate and Banstead.

Redhill West and Wray Common

Kanika Sachdeva, Conservative

I moved to Reigate a few years ago with my husband and made this borough our home by starting a family last year with our beautiful daughter.

If re-elected, I will focus on what best improves local communities' wellbeing by working closely with residents, local businesses and local organisations.

My passion and determination will help me represent your views and aspirations on the council to ensure that our community receives its fair share of funding for local amenities and projects.

Businesswoman with Masters in Business Administration
Black Belt in Taekwondo
Enjoy yoga, reading and exploring new places

Frank Percy, Green

Frank Percy has lived in Redhill for 15 years. A former Design and Technology Technician at the Warwick School, he works as a musician, performing at several local popular venues. He says: "Voting Green can bring about some radical changes and huge benefits right here in our local community; it is certainly not a 'wasted' vote."

Rosie Norgrove, Labour

I have lived in Redhill for many years and, recently retired, have dedicated my time to supporting the local community. I help at both a local foodbank and at the hospital and am particularly interested in issues that affect the vulnerable of our community.

Too many residents are being pushed into poverty. The rising demand for foodbanks is an issue that cannot be ignored in the local area and if elected, I am committed to working with people to help wipe out food poverty in the borough.

Stuart Holmes, Liberal Democrat

Stuart has lived in Redhill and Reigate all his life. He lives in Redhill with his wife and 2 children. He attended South Park, St Luke's, and St Bede's schools.

If elected Stuart promises to work hard, listen, and get things done for Redhill West & Wray Common residents. Stuart's top priorities are: Making Redhill greener by reducing the borough's carbon footprint and supporting biodiversity, making active travel safer with more cycle lanes, school streets and reduce urban speed limits to 20mph and repairing our roads and footpaths, and protecting Redhill's green spaces.

Reigate

Michael Blacker, Conservative

I believe in maintaining and improving everything that's good about our town. Priory Park, as the heart of the town, gets a lot of attention and events and I want to see this continue; additionally I also want to give added protection to Reigate Heath.

This year has shown us the importance of open spaces, and the Heath gives direct access to nature for so many.

Throughout my many years on the council I have worked tirelessly to address any problems that borough residents may have, and to improve the local services for the enjoyment of all.

Andrew Proudfoot, Green

Andrew Proudfoot is a Biologist and secondary school teacher who has lived in the area for 30 years. He says: "With a genuine focus on the environment, which recognises the global climate crisis and damage to wildlife, a Green vote also delivers modern, well thought out community services for all."

Tony Robinson, Labour

I am current chair of the Reigate Constituency Labour Party. I am a pioneer in wind technology and solar panel design. My concern is that too much lip service is being paid to the environment and action is needed now to create a sustainable, carbon neutral future.

John Vincent, Liberal Democrat

John has lived in Reigate for 30 years. He represented central Reigate as a county councillor from 1993-1997 and a Reigate and Banstead borough councillor until 2000.

John has been campaigning since the mid-1980s and stood as a Lib Dem European and Westminster parliamentary candidate. He has worked on policy and implementation of environmental, planning and transport problems.

He likes to walk in the local countryside, amateur gardening, and travel. John is a chartered engineer who has worked in aerospace and international aviation. In his retirement he runs a small charity and undertakes consultancy work on aircraft safety.

South Park and Woodhatch

Simon Rickman, Conservative

Having lived in Woodhatch, Reigate for over 20 years, running a local business close by and serving as borough councillor, I believe I am well qualified to understand the needs and concerns of residents.

The last year has been challenging and has seen me channelling my efforts into supporting residents through the pandemic.

As we look forward to the return of some normality in our lives, I look forward to offering continued communication and support to those affected by the past year, continuing to deliver on the regeneration within our towns as well as the enhancement of our local area.

Paul Chandler, Green

He says: "I want to see children safely walking and cycling in clean air, enjoying green spaces and play areas in their local community. We must combat climate change with local initiatives to improve air quality, rewild green spaces, provide sustainable energy and insulate homes. I will involve local people in decision making and spending."

Linda Giles, Labour

I have recently retired from working at East Surrey Hospital and now enjoy my time with local charities, in particular being a member of a local choir.

The borough has a diverse range of people aged 55+ but there are few age-friendly policies in place locally, no sense of community that values them or supports them in later years. A successful Labour council project developed in Hackney, an Ageing Well Strategy, would be a great addition to the borough and something I would promote should I be elected.

Vote counting at Donyngs Leisure Centre, Redhill in the local elections — This year's local election count will again be held at Donyngs Leisure Centre in Redhill (Image: Darren Pepe / SurreyLive)

Tattenham Corner and Preston

Aaron Harris, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Alistair Morten, Green

Alistair lives locally with his family and works in further education. As a Green Party member for over 25 years, he believes that only the Green Party is committed to creating communities that are vibrant, inclusive and sustainable.

Steve Boeje, Labour

I have enjoyed close links with Tadworth for over 50 years, the majority of which I've worked with children's services both in local government and in the charities sector.

Whilst in semi-retirement, I was appalled at the lack of youth services available locally when Surrey County Council cut funding to The Phoenix Centre.

Together with a local builder, we began work on a project that would transform the community. I remain a central figure ensuring The MYTI Club has proved and continues to be a phenomenal success delivering youth services to the local area.

Andrew Knights, Liberal Democrat

Andrew has been a Liberal Democrat for the past 40 years. He's committed to a fair and equitable society where all sectors of the community have the same opportunities through education, work and life.

He's now standing for election to put his convictions into action. Andrew is a committed activist and now gives time to activities in Reigate and Banstead as well as across the South East Region.

He believes that we must fight for our principles of being fair, green, and caring. He's a committed European, married to a Belgian, with a son living in Germany.

Bob Harper, Tattenham and Preston Residents

I'm Bob Harper. I'm an engineer and a life-long local resident. My aim is to keep our area a safe, clean and pleasant place to live. I'm an experienced Residents Association councillor for Tattenhams, and am now working too for the Preston residents who have joined our ward. I welcome the new residents, and one of the major tasks is to make sure the council delivers on the improvements which it signed up to in the Preston Regeneration Plan.

I support keeping the Green Belt green and will work with residents to oppose unacceptable and unneighbourly planning applications.

Surrey County Council elections

Banstead, Woodmansterne & Chipstead

Luke Bennett, Conservative

I grew up here and I am delighted to be standing to represent and serve Banstead, Woodmansterne and Chipstead at Surrey CC. I am committed to:

Keeping the area safe, clean (litter-free) and well served by public services.
Enabling a strong economic recovery.
Rapidly improving our pot-holed roads!
Responding to enquiries promptly, courteously and supportively.
Supporting initiatives which genuinely help residents’ lives and our environment.

I will work tirelessly to achieve this, whilst ensuring that residents are consulted and ‘heard’ on issues which matter most to them. Please let me know how I can help you!

Mark David Johnston, Liberal Democrat

Originally from Cheshire Mark has lived in the area for six years. He is an EU policy specialist with two decades working in Brussels on environmental protection legislation.

Mark joined the Lib Dems after the 2016 referendum and hopes to see Brexit reversed within a decade. His priority is helping local businesses recover after the ‘double-whammy’ of the pandemic and dishonest Tory rule that has, for example, left the City financial services industry hit hard. Mark also wants to transform local mobility by making walking, cycling, buses and trains all more popular alongside fewer and cleaner private cars.

Ian Thirlwall, Labour

As a qualified engineer and having lived in the local area for over 45 years, the M23 - A23 expansion project in Hooley has concerned me for a long time.

Local people & businesses can rely on me to represent their concerns at council level to prevent a potential road safety and environmental disaster, leading to increased air pollution and deaths.

Significant investment is needed, for Surrey’s roads, particularly to implement a better & safer cycle lane network across the county. "In Surrey we don’t drive on the left of the roads, we drive on what’s left of the roads."

Earlswood and Reigate South

Earlswood Common daffodils — A splash of colour at Earlswood Common (Image: Mark Davison/Surrey Mirror Series)

Catherine Baart, Green

Catherine has lived south of Reigate for over 30 years, working first in Financial Services and then as a teacher. She says: "Surrey’s financial success also brings social inequality and threats to our environment. I will challenge ‘business as usual’ attitudes, and hold the county council to account on its climate emergency declaration, including supporting new green jobs.

"After years of Conservatives dominating both councils, there is no safe cycle network for people to make local journeys by bike rather than car, and the borough council wants to build on the Green Belt. It’s time to vote for change."

Rex Giles, Labour

Barbara Thomson, Conservative

I care deeply about our community and have always worked hard to deal with resident’s worries and various concerns. I recognise the lack of activities for our young people and will do my utmost to work with partners to rectify this.

I live in Whitebushes, and so I’m well placed to understand important local issues. I want to keep our communities safe, to work hard on getting improved local junctions, and better local road networks for all road users.

Being a councillor is about being visible and active locally, both things I will continue to do if elected.

Horley East

Jordan Beech, Conservative

Jordan Beech is a Horley resident, local transport worker and a serving Councillor for Horley South ward on Horley Town Council. If elected to serve as County Councillor for the Horley East Division, Jordan is committed to championing our communities interests and working with local voluntary groups to support the excellent work they do for the community

If elected his priorities will be to improve local roads by ensuring that long-standing issues are resolved, supporting local businesses as they recover from the pandemic and securing the development of new community facilities and infrastructure for our growing town.

Shasha Khan, Green

Shasha is a Domestic Energy Assessor. He lives in the borough with his wife and two young daughters.

He says: "I have a strong track record in representing our community. In 2014 I challenged a neighbouring Council in the High Courts for approving an application to build a health-damaging incinerator. The Conservatives are sitting on a massive majority on the Council, which is unhealthy for democratic accountability."

Tom Turner, Labour

Horley West, Salfords & Sidlow

Lynnette Easterbrook, Labour

Andy Lynch, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Merstham & Banstead South

Shaka Aklilu, Labour

Frank Kelly, Conservative

I have served as a borough councillor since 2011 and been involved in many projects. We have had a major redevelopment in Merstham including housing, shops and the hub. This continues with the recreation ground.

I was also involved with the redecoration and improvement works at the war memorial and helped a local business to start up a much-needed replacement post office. I am currently Chair of licensing and regulatory and sit on the planning committee.

If elected on 6th May I will continue to work within the local community helping to provide a voice for them.

Kumari Lane, Green

Kumari is an academic lawyer who has lived in the Redhill/Reigate area since 1981. She says: "Vote for the Green Party if you believe in a healthy society with a safe and clean environment; a publicly-funded health service; adequate housing; properly funded, accessible higher education; workers’ rights and good public transport."

Jemma De Vincenzo, Liberal Democrat

Jemma lives locally in Merstham. She chose to set up home in a community that benefits from green spaces and community facilities, viewing this as the perfect place to raise a family.

As an NHS clinician working with schools, young people, and families daily, Jemma recognise the pressure services are under and the fight families face to get the support they need.

She’s passionate about ensuring children and young people have the best start in life by protecting valuable services and promoting joined-up working so that all children can all have a brighter future.

Nork & Tattenhams

Ros Godson, Labour

Hi, I’m Ros, I spent the best part of my working life as an NHS nurse in hospitals and in the community. I have lived in Epsom for eighteen years and have been chair of the Epsom & Ewell Labour party for six.

I’m standing in the Surrey County Council elections to give hope to residents that there is a much better alternative to the stale Tory/Residents’ Association status quo.

If more Labour candidates were elected, then we would have a much nicer, kinder local area. Local services would be much better, and everyone would be happier.

Nick Harrison, Nork and Tattenhams Residents' Association

I’m Nick Harrison and an experienced County Councillor for Nork & Tattenhams. The mainstream political parties say that Residents Associations (RA’s) are only focussed on local issues. It is true RA’s do listen closely to what residents say and work hard for them.

However, as the main alternative group at the Council, as RA councillors we “punch above our weight” and play a full role in all of the Council’s work and promote value for money. Locally, the issue mentioned most often is road and pavement repairs, and I will vigorously push for more action.

Ohis Ilalokhoin, Conservative

No bio supplied.

Andrew Knights, Liberal Democrat

Andrew has been a Liberal Democrat for the past 40 years. He’s committed to a fair and equitable society where all sectors of the community have the same opportunities through education, work and life.

He’s now standing for election to put his convictions into action. Andrew is a committed activist and now gives time to activities in Reigate and Banstead as well as across the South East Region. He believes that we must fight for our principles of being fair, green, and caring. He’s a committed European, married to a Belgian, with a son living in Germany.

Alistair Morten, Green

Alistair lives locally with his family and works in Further Education. As a Green Party member for over 25 years, he believes that only the Green Party is committed to creating communities that are vibrant, inclusive and sustainable.

Redhill East

Jonathan Essex, Green

Jonathan is a chartered civil engineer. He has served on the Borough Council since 2010 and the County Council since 2013.

He says: "I have served as your County Councillor for the last eight years. I have worked hard to get things done in Redhill. I hope you will re-elect me so I can carry on representing you, standing up for vulnerable residents and working to make Surrey a better and greener place to live."

Mick Hay, Labour

Peter Lambell, Liberal Democrat

Peter has lived in the Reigate area for most of his life. He is an active member of the community, representing Reigate as County Councillor from 2009-2013.

As a former Vice Chair of Governors at Brooklands School, he has a particular interest in education. He was the Lib Dem spokesperson for Education serving on the council's Education Select Committee. As a councillor, he successfully worked to protect bus services from cuts, and to ensure respite care for parents with disabled children.

He is a graduate of Oxford Brookes University and the College of Law and now works as a Business Analyst.

Adam Lehodey, Conservative

I'm so excited to be standing for election in Redhill East this May. Through championing business and entrepreneurship in Redhill and across Surrey, I’ll enable new opportunities, both social and economic, to be created for all. I’ll provide a stronger voice for residents, especially young people, and work to ensure local transport (rail, roads, cycling) works for all.

Most importantly, I understand that you fund the Council, and so want to ensure that residents keep as much of their paycheque as possible through improving value and cutting out wasteful spending. Vote Lehodey this May!

Redhill West & Meadvale

Natalie Jane Bramhall, Conservative

I am proud to have been selected as the Conservative Candidate to stand for re-election to Surrey for Redhill West & Meadvale.

My record on delivery is excellent from zebra crossing, regenerating natural ponds in Somerset & Pendleton Roads, tree and hedgerow planting, traffic restrictions, calming measures, roads resurfacing, HGV restriction for Pendleton Road (soon to be implemented), Redhill town centre regeneration to name but a few.

I am uniquely placed as I live in the centre of the Division and am also a Borough Councillor to facilitate the joint working between County and Borough.

Steve Kulka, Liberal Democrat

Steve has been a local Councillor since 2002. He has campaigned successfully for the completion of 6 pedestrian crossings and the reinstatement of footpaths for parents walking their children to school.

He supported residents in successfully opposing the siting of seven mobile phone masts. He also successfully campaigned for many of our roads to be resurfaced. He has helped residents with numerous parking issues in residential roads, along with potholes, damaged kerbs, and drains.

He has also pushed Surrey County Council to retain local bus routes. Steve would work to improve the working relationship between local council departments.

Alastair Richardson, UKIP

I will also campaign for the reform of our inequitable electoral system and will advocate the use of the D’Hondt system as in European elections.

Mark Smith, Labour

Reigate

Paul Chandler, Green

Paul is a retired IT worker who has lived in Reigate for 25 years with a passion for exercise and the environment. He has volunteered with a local running club, enjoyed being a scout leader for 5 years and volunteers with parkrun. He says: "I want to see children safely walking and cycling in clean air, enjoying green spaces and play areas in their local community.

"We must combat climate change with local initiatives to improve air quality, rewild green spaces, provide sustainable energy and insulate homes. I will involve local people in decision making and spending."

Victor Lewanski, Conservative

I believe that it is the right of every constituent to see their Councillor and if elected, I will hold regular Councillor surgeries, political debates for local schools and be involved with local community groups.

I am keen to involve young people as their opinions are fundamental in shaping our County. I will ensure that young people have a voice through regular engagement with the County Council and direct access to Councillors.

We need to drive forward the Environmental Sustainability agenda through recycling and re-using and I will ensure that recycling is at the forefront of the County’s Sustainability strategy.

Tony Robinson, Labour

John Vincent, Liberal Democrat

John has lived in Reigate for 30-years. He represented central Reigate as a County Councillor from 1993-1997 and a Reigate and Banstead Borough Councillor until 2000.

Tadworth, Walton & Kingswood

Steve Boeje, Labour

I have enjoyed close links with Tadworth for over 50 years, the majority of which I've worked with children's services both in local government and in the charities sector.

Whilst in semi-retirement, I was appalled at the lack of youth services available locally when Surrey County Council cut funding to The Phoenix Centre.

Rebecca Paul, Conservative

I am a local resident living in Walton-on-the-Hill with my young family. I enjoy supporting community projects through my work with the Walton-on-the-Hill Village Forum.

I’m also a trustee of local charity ‘Tadworth & Walton Overseas Aid Trust’. We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful area, and I want to play my part in in protecting what makes it special.

I will be a strong voice for residents, whilst advocating for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. This is our home, our community, and I’m committed to ensuring that it is safe and prosperous.

Roger Ponsford, Green

Roger is a retired environmental consultant who has lived in Walton-on-The-Hill since 1971. Through his work primarily with construction-related companies he has seen how the design, construction and operation of buildings can be so much more sustainable.

He would like to improve the balance of power within the council and be in a position to influence decisions so that more environmentally acceptable options are chosen.

Christopher Thompson, Liberal Democrat

He is a volunteer at the Trussell Trust foodbank, a keen footballer and outdoor swimming enthusiast.