croydonconstitutionalists

Jan Cresswell, SDP Candidate for Blackpool North and Fleetwood

Jan Cresswell is the SDP prospective candidate for Blackpool North and Fleetwood. We spoke with Jan about her decision to stand.

“I have a fundamental mistrust of empire building, and expect that in time the EU bureaucratic machine will overreach itself enough to see the edifice come tumbling down”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Jan Cresswell, and until very recently I worked as a conservation officer at Blackpool Council. I retired at Easter, so I’m looking forward to filling my time with travel and hobbies. I’ve been married to Keith for 29 years, and have two children: Jessica and Jonathan.

What made you decide to stand for the SDP?

I joined the SDP about 4 years ago when I was feeling politically homeless. I’d always considered myself ‘a bit of a leftie’ but found myself being shunted towards the centre ground without having particularly changed my worldview! Brexit was a big issue for me. I have a fundamental mistrust of empire building, and expect that in time the EU bureaucratic machine will overreach itself enough to see the edifice come tumbling down as other European countries reject its ideologies. It’s clear how far it has enmeshed itself in our everyday lives by how difficult it has been to extricate ourselves.

“I was born in Blackpool, spent my early years in Thornton (5 miles north) and went to senior school in Fleetwood. I’ve always worked on the Fylde Coast, so I feel sure I know the area, its struggles and its people”

As I was casting around for a new political home I discovered the SDP, and instantly felt that their policies chimed with my own beliefs. As well as being left-leaning economically they, for instance, consider the nation-state to be the upper limit of democracy. They also pledge to uphold the values of freedom of thought and speech which lie at the heart of British democracy. As someone who was shocked at the rapid descent into authoritarianism since March 2020, and censorship of dissenting voices in this and other matters, this gave me hope. I know small parties struggle to be heard above the noise of the two main parties, but I firmly believe that people should be given a real choice, and that’s why I’m standing, no matter how high a mountain there is to climb.

You’re the spokesman for Blackpool North and Fleetwood. What’s made you decide to represent this area?

I was born in Blackpool, spent my early years in Thornton (5 miles north) and went to senior school in Fleetwood. I’ve always worked on the Fylde Coast, so I feel sure I know the area, its struggles and its people. I’ve seen the changes and how they have affected the health, wealth and well-being of local people, and it would be an honour to champion them.

“it sometimes feels like the town has been written off, like so many other industrial areas where the main source of employment has disappeared. I would champion the re-industrialisation of Fleetwood, supplying training and jobs (see the SDP policy on Special Economic Zones)”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency, and what issues do you hope to champion?

As the first mass working-class seaside resort, Blackpool became a victim of its own early success. In the 1970s and 80s mass tourism declined with the availability of cheap foreign holidays. B&B owners and other local businesses struggled to stay afloat. In the following years, a downward spiral of cheap accommodation chasing fewer visitors, more and more given over to houses in multiple occupation, lack of investment and the steady influx of people from other areas, attracted to plentiful cheap accommodation by the sea, bringing their own problems with them, has resulted in a town having some of the worst health and social inequalities in the country. However, I know that the local Council is trying to turn back the tide, and have been successful in attracting millions in government funding to improve the town, which will encourage private investment, improve life for residents and give holidaymakers more reasons to visit. It will take many years to reverse the impact of that earlier decline, but I would make championing the work of the Council (which often isn’t recognised) my main concern, because I know they have the best interests of local people at heart.

Fleetwood has similarly suffered a long decline since the closure of the branch railway line and the demise of the fishing industry. It’s unlikely even with Brexit that fishing will ever recover its former importance, but it sometimes feels like the town has been written off, like so many other industrial areas where the main source of employment has disappeared. I would champion the re-industrialisation of Fleetwood, supplying training and jobs (see the SDP policy on Special Economic Zones). There is also now a glimmer of hope that the branch railway line will be reinstated to link up with the tramway in Fleetwood, and I would definitely champion that given the opportunity. People, especially young people, need to be given the chance to fulfil their potential, and good education and training and affordable transport links for business and leisure, are also very important to achieve that.

But I think it’s important to be honest with people that there are no quick fixes, that turning around decline can take decades to see tangible results. In today’s world of instant gratification that’s probably a hard sell, but I find that honesty is ultimately the best policy!

Lastly, I’d encourage anyone who thinks that the SDP might be for them to visit the website sdp.org.uk to look at their comprehensive policies.

Edward Oakenful, Reform UK candidate for Derbyshire Dales

Edward Oakenful is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Derbyshire Dales. We spoke with Edward about his decision to stand.

“We have the highest taxes since WW2, and I cannot think of any public service that is doing well. What value for money are taxpayers actually getting?”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I have pretty much lived in Derbyshire all my life and love the scenery and beauty of our wonderful county. There is so much to see and do all across the area, from its many pretty villages to the majestic Chatsworth House.

My background is in business, and I have managed my own property investment fund for longer than a decade.

I am passionate about sport, having played to a high level in Seniors Tennis, with a high of 47 in the M45 world rankings and having captained England in a Four Nations against Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.

“The madness of Net Zero which is exporting British jobs abroad and making us all colder and poorer”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

For many decades now I have been despairing at how badly our country is being run:

We have the highest taxes since WW2, and I cannot think of any public service that is doing well. What value for money are taxpayers actually getting?

Our borders are completely open with no solution in sight to the ‘free-for-all’ that is our immigration policy, despite tough words from the Prime Minister!

The madness of Net Zero which is exporting British jobs abroad and making us all colder and poorer.

All these main areas where the tired old parties of the Conservatives, Labour and Lib Dems have essentially the same policies.

You’re the Spokesman for Derbyshire Dales what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I live in the Derbyshire Dales and have done pretty much my whole life. I believe we deserve representation in Parliament from a local MP who cares about and understands the rural economy.

“I will be championing the fantastic work our farmers do to feed Great Britain in all weathers. I believe the industry needs better support and especially significant reduction of the red tape”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Farming is a massive topical issue. All across Europe and the world we are seeing “Net Zero” policies imposed on farming communities, with hugely detrimental effects on both farmers and local populations. These authoritarian policies have triggered large-scale demonstrations as far away as Sri Lanka and the European Union, and we have also seen them in our own country on the back of the draconian measures introduced recently in Wales.

As a country, we import over 50% of our food needs. This leaves us greatly exposed if there were to be any shock to the world trade system. We need to boost our own food production to over 75%, and I will be championing the fantastic work our farmers do to feed Great Britain in all weathers. I believe the industry needs better support and especially significant reduction of the red tape that holds many farmers back from doing the job they love. I live on a farm and see first hand the barriers raised by our government at every turn to prevent farmers from actually working the land.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Please get in touch with me at: [email protected]

Facebook: Edward Oakenfull for Derbyshire Dales and Reform UK – Derbyshire Dales

Twitter: @EdwardOakenful1

Stephen Balogh, SDP Candidate for Ealing Central & Acton, and the London Assembly

Stephen Balogh is the SDP prospective candidate for next General Election for Ealing Central & Acton, He is also on their London wide list for the Greater London Authority. We spoke with Stephen about his decision to stand.

“following a 30-year business career, I am now active in non-profit, political and public policy organisations that promote the general flourishing of society and building of community”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

As well as being a candidate on the London List for the upcoming London Assembly elections, alongside Amy Gallagher as our mayoral candidate, I am the SDP’s prospective parliamentary candidate for the SDP in the Ealing Central and Acton constituency, in which I have been resident for 25+ years. In terms of a brief background, following a 30-year business career, I am now active in non-profit, political and public policy organisations that promote the general flourishing of society and building of community through the thoughtful application of socially responsible, small-c conservative principles. This includes active involvement in my local parish and other neighbourhood cohesion initiatives through to much broader based regional and national organisations promoting kinship, community and service. As part of this, I am National Organiser for the New Culture Forum and in this capacity responsible for the “NCF Locals” initiative in which groups are established in localities around the country, giving a fresh rootedness to those who feel isolated politically. I am married (in fact married/widowed/remarried) with two grown up adopted boys.

“Instead of being seen as a means to achieve national cohesion, all too often community is now seen as a way to demarcate and fragment society into groups jockeying for preferential treatment”

What made you decide to stand for the SDP?

There’s a clue in my previous answer. For me, community is the bedrock of society and we have seen a fragmentation in recent decades of what it means to be community. Instead of being seen as a means to achieve national cohesion, all too often community is now seen as a way to demarcate and fragment society into groups jockeying for preferential treatment that is sometimes (often, even) incompatible with the overall demos. The values and policies of the SDP unashamedly seek to restore a different vision of community that transcends defined interest groups and orients citizens once more to the nation in which they live. A lot of the SDP’s policy framework stems from this simple but foundational proposition.

“the real problems of London: crime, lack of housing especially at the affordable end and a sense of allocation priorities that do not always feel just, an overriding sense of edginess bordering on hostility in public spaces that used to be welcoming”

What do you see as the big concerns for London and what issues do you hope to champion?

The dominant mode of politics in London is divisive and all to often described along contours of identity differences and perceptions of difference and disadvantage. This creates a sense of “us and them” and a zero-sum game in the race to preferential treatment. Meanwhile, the real problems of London: crime, lack of housing especially at the affordable end and a sense of allocation priorities that do not always feel just, an overriding sense of edginess bordering on hostility in public spaces that used to be welcoming, public transport that does not provide the sense of personal security and efficiency that Londoners and visitors to London rightly think they should deserve and are paying for, all against an increasingly grubby feel. Personally, I start with my back yard, that is, the essential but effort-consuming “keepie uppie” of community building for public good, not for subsectional interests. With restoration of a sense of civic pride and responsibility, a renewed desire to influence and participate in policies for the good of all Londoners is generate in its wake. Where this does already exist, there is for instance ready collaboration with neighbourhood policing and a sense of cohesion to replace isolation and edginess.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Please follow me on X/Twitter (@BaloghStephen), also London SDP (@Londonsdp) and SDP mayoral candidate Amy Gallagher (@standuptowoke). Retweet what you agree with (and feel free to comment on what you don’t). For the campaign policy manifesto, look at https://sdp.org.uk/amy/. The London election campaign is of course short now, but there is a slightly longer game for the many SDP candidates for London parliamentary constituencies, such as me. If you would like to help or even join the SDP as a member, get in touch via www.sdp.org.uk. Our profile is growing all the time, and we welcome any help to make it grow faster, for the sake of our communities and nation.

Eddie McDonald, Reform UK candidate for Corby and East Northamptonshire

Eddie McDonald is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Corby and East Northamptonshire. We spoke with Eddie about his decision to stand.

“I’ve watched with alarm and disbelief as we were betrayed and democracy ignored by weak politicians, on Brexit and many other issues. Our political leaders no longer represent the citizen”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, I am Eddie McDonald, the Reform UK PPC for Corby and East Northamptonshire. I’m 58, 8 years ago I retired from the Police, having served 30 years, throughout Northamptonshire and in almost every Role, with the exception of Traffic and Firearms. I am married, my wife is a teacher and we have 4 children, all of whom were educated in Corby. I have no previous political memberships, and I’m certain that I’m not dissimilar to many in my constituency.

“waiting for someone else to do it. I had been encouraged by Reform UK and their position on the economy, immigration and what I’d call, many common sense decisions, and put myself forward as a candidate”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

I campaigned for Brexit in 2016, as I believe that Brexit is in the best interests of the UK. I still do. I hear so many say that Brexit was a failure, etc, but my response is that we haven’t had the Brexit that 17.4million voted for, because we have been betrayed by our politicians.

I’ve watched with alarm and disbelief as we were betrayed and democracy ignored by weak politicians, on Brexit and many other issues. Our political leaders no longer represent the citizen and there’s a huge disconnect with me and everyone that I know. It appears that corruption and self interest are the new politics, and for me that isn’t acceptable.

My wife, I think, had enough of me shouting at the telly and suggested that I do something myself, rather than waiting for someone else to do it. I had been encouraged by Reform UK and their position on the economy, immigration and what I’d call, many common sense decisions, and put myself forward as a candidate.

As far as the other parties are concerned, it is my opinion that the Conservatives were no longer conservative or Unionist in their actions or speech. Labour, has deviated from the old Labour principles, they no longer represent or connect with the British worker and are more concerned with minority interests, rather than the needs of the majority. Both parties have sold out to interests and voices other than their electorate. As someone who believes in duty and service to others, this is anathema to me.

You’re the Spokesman for Corby and East Northamptonshire what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I moved to Northamptonshire in 1976, when my father left the Army. I live in the constituency, work here and raised our children here. It makes sense to have someone local represent their neighbours, after all I’m one of them.

“Corby needs employers who create employment for local people, ideally skilled jobs with secure futures. The area is ideally positioned with great transport networks, but its road surfaces are poorly maintained by the local councils”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

The economy is the priority, without a thriving economy, its very difficult to introduce the necessary changes. Encouraging economic growth, stimulates growth in jobs, money in the pocket, improved infrastructure, and overall public satisfaction. Corby, lost a lot of well paid, secure jobs, and its identity with the demise of the steelworks. Corby needs employers who create employment for local people, ideally skilled jobs with secure futures. The area is ideally positioned with great transport networks, but its road surfaces are poorly maintained by the local councils. these need urgently improved.

I would pursue Reform UK policy on growing our industrial strength and security, encouraging the increased output and reliance on our once mighty steel industry, rather than imported steel. I would champion the improvement in our local road networks and push for the introduction of improved cross county road access.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

I can be contacted via my FB page, Reform UK Corby and East Northamptonshire or my email [email protected].

Prabhdeep Singh, Reform UK candidate for Feltham and Heston

Prabhdeep Singh is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Feltham and Heston. We spoke with Prabhdeep about his decision to stand.

“My political activism began as a response to the growing disparities I saw in our society, especially highlighted by the cost of living crisis and unfair policy implementations like the ULEZ expansion”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Prabhdeep Singh, a committed advocate for social justice and a prospective parliamentary candidate for Feltham and Heston with the Reform UK party. Born in Punjab, India, and a British resident since 2003, I have served in the British Army’s Royal Army Dental Corps before venturing into entrepreneurship. My political activism began as a response to the growing disparities I saw in our society, especially highlighted by the cost of living crisis and unfair policy implementations like the ULEZ expansion. I lead the Fight2Survive movement, which aims to bring pressing community issues right to the halls of Parliament, ensuring that the voices of the underrepresented are heard and acted upon.

“Reform UK’s commitment to addressing these systemic problems, such as the cost of living crisis and bureaucratic overreach, resonates with my experiences and the values I’ve upheld throughout my life”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

Deciding to stand for Reform UK was a pivotal choice driven by my deep-seated belief in the party’s principles and its alignment with my vision for a fair and just society. After years of military service and community activism, I felt increasingly frustrated with the traditional political parties’ approach to governance and their often inadequate response to the issues facing everyday people. Reform UK’s commitment to addressing these systemic problems, such as the cost of living crisis and bureaucratic overreach, resonates with my experiences and the values I’ve upheld throughout my life. The party’s focus on direct action, transparency, and real change presented the perfect platform for me to take my activism to the next level—into Parliament, where I can effect change from within and advocate for policies that truly benefit the constituents of Feltham and Heston

“ULEZ expansion, a policy I have actively campaigned against through a hunger strike at Uxbridge Station. Throughout that intense week, many residents came to show their support”

You’re the Spokesman for Feltham and Heston what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I decided to represent Feltham and Heston specifically because it is one of the areas directly impacted by the ULEZ expansion, a policy I have actively campaigned against through a hunger strike at Uxbridge Station. Throughout that intense week, many residents came to show their support and share their concerns with me. These interactions helped forge a deep connection and a sense of duty towards the people here. I vowed to continue fighting for their issues in Parliament, advocating for change in an area that not only needs it due to policy pressures like ULEZ but also deserves a committed representative who genuinely understands and shares their challenges

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign

You can contact me by

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07305083469

and at the Fight2Survive website: www.fight2survive.org

Or via our Reform UK social media links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reformukprabhdeep

Twitter: @PrabhdeepReform

Instagram: prabhdeep.reformuk

Also find further information on:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@fight2survive370

TikTok: @fight2surviveofficial

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Anthony Owens, Reform UK candidate for Northampton South

Anthony Owens is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton South. We spoke with Anthony about his decision to stand.

“I have witnessed firsthand the gaps and inefficiencies in the healthcare system that often leave individuals, including veterans, underserved, and overlooked”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, I am Anthony. I have had the privilege of serving in various capacities dedicated to public service and healthcare. My journey began as a British soldier, where I learned the values of discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. Transitioning to the British police force, I upheld the law with integrity and a commitment to community safety. Now, as a paramedic practitioner in a GP surgery, I bring together my experiences to provide comprehensive healthcare with compassion and dedication.

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

I believe in the urgent need for reform in healthcare policy, particularly regarding accessibility, affordability, and quality of care. Through my experiences as both a paramedic practitioner and a former British soldier, I have witnessed firsthand the gaps and inefficiencies in the healthcare system that often leave individuals, including veterans, underserved, and overlooked.

As a candidate of Reform UK, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritize healthcare accessibility and address the unique needs of veterans. Our veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support and care they deserve upon returning to civilian life. This includes access to mental health services, rehabilitation programs, and employment opportunities tailored to their skills and experiences.

I am enthusiastic about championing these causes within Reform UK because I believe in the power of proactive, compassionate policymaking to enact meaningful change and improve the lives of both veterans and the broader community. By standing for reform on healthcare policy and supporting veterans’ rights, I aim to contribute to a brighter and more equitable future for all.

“Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to reform, we can work towards revitalising our healthcare system and ensuring a healthier future for all residents of Northampton South”

You’re the Spokesman for Northampton South what’s made you decide to represent this area?

As the Reform UK candidate for Northampton South, my decision to stand stems from a deep-rooted commitment to improving the lives of individuals in my community. Having worked as a paramedic practitioner at a GP surgery in Northampton South, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and shortcomings within our healthcare system. The recent CQC rating of a GP surgery as inadequate only underscores the urgent need for reform and change.

I am deeply invested in ensuring that every individual in Northampton South receives the quality healthcare they deserve. The inadequate rating serves as a catalyst for action, spurring me to step forward and advocate for meaningful reforms that address the deficiencies in our local healthcare services. My firsthand experience within the system equips me with valuable insights and perspectives to drive positive change.

By standing as the Reform UK candidate, I aim to be a voice for the community, advocating for policies that prioritise healthcare excellence, accountability, and accessibility. I believe that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstance, deserves access to high-quality healthcare services that meet their needs effectively. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to reform, we can work towards revitalising our healthcare system and ensuring a healthier future for all residents of Northampton South.

“The lack of suitable infrastructure to support the influx of new residents not only undermines the quality of life for current residents but also poses significant challenges for the future well-being of our community”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

As a resident of Northampton, I have witnessed firsthand the rapid increase in housing construction without corresponding improvements in infrastructure, particularly in essential services like healthcare and policing. The booming housing market has brought with it a surge in population, placing strain on existing resources and highlighting the inadequacies of our infrastructure.

In terms of healthcare, the growing population has resulted in longer wait times for appointments, stretched resources at local GP surgeries and hospitals, and a strain on emergency services. Residents often struggle to access timely and quality care due to overburdened healthcare facilities. Similarly, the increased demand for police services has stretched thin an already limited force, leading to longer response times and decreased effectiveness in addressing community needs.

The lack of suitable infrastructure to support the influx of new residents not only undermines the quality of life for current residents but also poses significant challenges for the future well-being of our community. It is imperative that we address these issues proactively by investing in the expansion and improvement of healthcare facilities and bolstering police resources to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

As the Reform UK candidate for Northampton South, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritise infrastructure development and address the pressing needs of our community. By collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders, we can develop sustainable solutions to support the growing population and ensure that Northampton South remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

As I prepare to launch my campaign, I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to share my vision and message across multiple media platforms. While I understand the importance of having a strong presence in the media to reach a wider audience, I also recognise the significance of timing and strategy.

At this moment, I am carefully considering the optimal time to initiate my campaign. I want to ensure that when I step into the spotlight, I do so with purpose and impact. Timing is crucial, and I am waiting for the right moment to capture the attention of the public and convey my platform effectively.

By strategically planning the launch of my campaign, I aim to maximise visibility and engagement across various media websites. Whether it is through interviews, articles, or social media platforms, I am committed to leveraging every opportunity to connect with voters and garner support for my candidacy.

As I await the perfect moment to embark on this journey, I am using this time to fine-tune my message, solidify my platform, and build the momentum necessary for a successful campaign. I am confident that when the time is right, my campaign will make a significant impact, resonating with voters across the media landscape.

You can contact me at [email protected] and find out more at https://www.reformparty.uk/northampton-south-constituency.

Antony Antoniou, Reform UK candidate for Northampton North

Antony Antoniou is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton North. We spoke with Antony about his decision to stand.

“There are issues in the UK that require addressing as a matter of urgency, our society is becoming increasingly polarised and there is a spirit national sabotage from within”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Antony Antoniou, I was born in Northampton and have lived here all my life, with the exception of the odd period spent abroad. I have always wanted to represent Northampton and contribute to the community, which I have done in the past, in many different ways. I have been a mentor for the University of Northampton, I have been a QCF assessor, helping young people to progress academically whilst they are working and recently, I also became a parish councillor, for my local area, which is Kingsthorpe.

I run my own business and always have done, so there are many issues which I not only understand, but ones that I also have personal experience with.

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

I decided to stand as an independent MP last year, simply because I felt politically homeless and I wanted to be free to voice my opinion as I wished. Over time, I began to feel that the policies of Reform UK were very similar to my own, and therefore it made perfect sense for me to join the party and campaign as a team.

There are issues in the UK that require addressing as a matter of urgency, our society is becoming increasingly polarised and there is a spirit national sabotage from within, when we live in the best country in the world and we should be free to be proud of our nation, our flag, our way of life and the right to protect it.

Northampton North is, and always has been split along party lines, with little room for anyone else, which has not been good for the area. I am of the opinion that rather than see this as an obstacle, I see it as a necessary challenge, to get out there and argue our case, for the better good of all.

You’re the Spokesman for Northampton North, what’s made you decide to represent this area?

Northampton is my hometown and I live in the Northampton North area. I am already active in this area with council business and I really want to be able to improve things at a local level.

“We need supporters to spread the word, encourage the public to attend our meetings and help us to break the two-party deadlock that has been so catastrophic for this country”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

There is an increasing drug-fuelled crime problem in parts of Northampton North along with the same issues that are faced by most of the country, including access to essential services, housing, cost of living, concerns about mass immigration and the impact it is having on communities, which are overwhelmed with people who are living parallel lives, communities, within communities.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

I am currently looking for premises which we can use as our campaign headquarters in Northampton. This would enable us to have a visible presence and enable the public to visit and speak to us in person.

We need supporters to spread the word, encourage the public to attend our meetings and help us to break the two-party deadlock that has been so catastrophic for this country. Please follow my social media and even better, get in touch and participate with me, live on a stream, raw, unedited debate.

I do try to maintain a large social media presence, with posts, videos and live streams and in that regard, I would be happy to participate in a live stream, should the opportunity arise.

Fine me at:

https://www.facebook.com/ReformUKNorthamptonNorth

https://www.instagram.com/reformuk.northampton

https://twitter.com/antonyantoniou

https://antonyantoniou.co.uk/

Robert Reaney, Reform UK candidate for Bolsover

Robert Reaney is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bolsover. We spoke with Rob about his decision to stand.

“If the Keystone Cops were running parliament there’s a good chance they could have done a better job”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Rob Reaney and I am a family man in my mid 50s with one son. I was born and bred in Sheffield with humble roots that I am non the less very proud of. I am self employed now and run a small business in Chesterfield, having recently moved into the area. My work life has given me a mixed financial and business background as I worked in financial services for eighteen years and now run my own business in vintage motorcycles which has been a business that I thoroughly enjoy for the last twenty years.

“You name a subject and basically the situation appears to be in dire straits. I feel obliged to act”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

Something has to be done. I was sick of moaning about politics and doing nothing about it. My wife actively encouraged me to stand and looking at both of the main party’s I knew instinctively that I could not represent either of them with any degree of sincerity. You name a subject and basically the situation appears to be in dire straits. I feel obliged to act. Immigration in crisis, the NHS in crisis, the National debt at its worst, taxation off the charts, defence a joke, wages at their lowest, standards of living in physical decline, crime sky rocketing.. especially online crime, the police utterly disinterested, industries all over being sold out. Even national infrastructure and utilities are in disarray, social services on the brink of collapse, education of our children is not fit for purpose. The future prospects for our children looks rather grim – what chance have they got of even getting on the housing ladder?.

Where do you begin? If the Keystone Cops were running parliament there’s a good chance they could have done a better job. Brexit has been an utter betrayal. There is no other description for it. Something has to be done pretty urgently. Reform UK are the only party with any realistic chance of making major changes on the national stage in my view. I have looked at their policies and their people and they appeal to me. This is a team I can represent and I feel that they are talking sense. Common sense. Look at their manifesto. There’s no hype, waffle, empty promises, UN-costed dreams or fairy tales. It’s all no nonsense big change stuff. We need a really serious shake up. In my view Reform UK are the only ones gearing up to deliver it. Neither Labour or the Conservatives are the answer to our problems going forward. I do not believe either of them have the vision needed frankly. Only fresh thinking and some pretty bold moves are going to get us out of the jam that we are in. Neither Sunak or Starmer look credible to me. Do you really want them at the helm in a crisis? Honestly?

“The Constituency switched to the Conservatives last time purely to get Brexit done. They voted more than 80% in favour of Brexit here. They have been let down cruelly and in essence sold out by the Conservatives”

You’re the Spokesman for Bolsover what’s made you decide to represent this area?

First and foremost I live here. I am not a career politician drafted in to win an easy seat. Far from it. I work locally, and I connect with the people in the locality on every level. The seat was staunch Labour under Dennis Skinner, the “beast of Bolsover” for nearly five decades. Here was a straight talking no nonsense man and there appears to be a lot of respect for him still. You may not have agreed with what he was saying, but you at least understood it. There was no second guessing what Dennis Skinner meant. I believe that local people respect that level of honesty because it comes from actually believing what you are saying. The Constituency switched to the Conservatives last time purely to get Brexit done. They voted more than 80% in favour of Brexit here. They have been let down cruelly and in essence sold out by the Conservatives. I feel sure they will not go back down that path. Actually, some will never forgive the Tories for the last fourteen years. But will they switch back to Labour? That is what will be the question facing them in the ballot box. Conservative or Labour? Yet I have faith that the people of Bolsover are brave enough and perhaps savvy enough to vote for the wild card, the new kid on the block, the under dog.. which will be Reform UK. If any constituency in the UK has the bravery and sheer grit to send a shocking message to Westminster, then its Bolsover because the people here are beyond fed up. I want to represent the ordinary man or woman in the street who works hard, pays their taxes and expects a simple honest competent handling of the economy in return. Instead of what we are getting. The people of Bolsover deserve better. As do the people of the UK.

“We are promised a green jobs revolution, yet I don’t know a single person actually working in that industry”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Jobs, housing and immigration. Affordable housing for kids are almost non existent. The pressure on housing locally is ridiculous. In terms of jobs my local MP tells me that we have been transformed into a “service economy”. What does that mean? Does that mean that the best job in the area you can expect if you have worked hard and got a degree is serving in a shop? Probably at the local supermarket? What’s that about? Where have the real jobs gone? What happened to jobs for life, booming industries, highly skilled or professional jobs, rebuilding the country, decent trades etc. etc.?. Oh yes, I forgot. All that has been swapped in, in the race to become green. We are promised a green jobs revolution, yet I don’t know a single person actually working in that industry. Yes, we do have people installing solar panels, wind turbines and heat pumps, but where are these made? Is British Industry manufacturing these items or are we importing from overseas? Are we not manufacturing the pumps and the turbines here in the UK because we are being dragged down the route of a zero carbon footprint? Where are all the engineering and innovation jobs? We are and have always been an enterprising and innovative nation. This needs to be encouraged and promoted. We are a nation of miners, steel men, motor industry men, farmers, builders and inventors. Our children need to be encouraged in apprenticeship based skills. Is there any wonder that our young people are leaving the UK for a brighter future elsewhere. I truly can not blame them.

Finally immigration. Honestly, some people are frightened by all these strangers hanging about. Some are just sick of paying for the worlds hungry and needy. Others are angry at these outsiders jumping the cue for housing, health, education and social care. Everyone is worried about the financial drag when the TV blares out that it’s costing ten million a day to house what we already have and yet everyday more arrive. It is beyond a joke.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Go to the main website and study reforms policies. Don’t hear it second hand.

Reform UK (reformparty.uk)

Reform need social media ambassadors, which are people promoting them on their own social media platforms. They need volunteers to drop leaflets and door knock. Each local candidate needs funding to buy leaflets, sandwich boards, bumper stickers, posters etc. etc. So you have choices. You can support us online. You can make a donation. You can simply join the party. Or you can get actually involved and help canvas people and drop leaflets. All the links you need are on that website. Every local candidate has Facebook, Twitter, X and whatever else there is covered and all have their links on that website above, or will do very shortly. The single most important thing you can do however is to engage. Tell us what you want to see change. This is the only party that will not have a whip. That means that your local Reform UK candidate represents you and you can fully influence what they vote on. Do not sit back and be quiet and think there is nothing that you can do to make things change. Voice your opinion and voice it loudly. We are listening. Reform UK need your input. let’s not be a party that is detached from reality or its citizens. We need to know what you think all the time, every day and as often as you can be bothered to tell us. Engage. Do it now. And if you perhaps have someone who is elderly and not online, help them to engage as well. Get them on the telephone if need be. That is the type of party I want to be involved with.

You can find me on X/Twitter, and Facebook, email me at [email protected], and find more at https://www.reformparty.uk/bolsover-constituency.

Graham Drage, Reform UK candidate for Godalming and Ash

Graham Drage is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Godalming and Ash. We spoke with Graham about his decision to stand.

“I spent 16 months studying politics in Paris, which opened my eyes to the realities of the “European project”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Graham Drage. I am Guildford / Godalming born & bred, going onto read Politics, International Relations & French at Lancaster University in the late 1980s / early 1990s. As part of my degree, I spent 16 months studying politics in Paris, which opened my eyes to the realities of the “European project”. Today, I remain a passionate, bilingual European (culturally-speaking) and a strident supporter of the new outward-looking opportunities which Brexit presents.

I’ve been self-employed all of my life; working as business consultant for some of the UK’s principal telecommunications and managed services companies. I also setup a small manufacturing business, building wine cellars over a 15-year period, whilst employing a small team of ex-offenders in our workshop in Farnham.

“if the Social Contract is an implicit agreement between the people and their government about what each side provides to the other, the Tories have clearly broken this contract”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

I was moved to stand for Reform-UK because I’m acutely concerned about the Tory Party’s move to the left, its steadfast refusal to deliver an honest, conservative agenda and because of the parlous state of British politics generally. I’d describe my political views as right-of-centre, moderate and coherent. I believe in small state, low taxation economies which operate ‘within their means’. As a business owner, I also believe that SMEs are the beating-heart of our economy, providing 16m jobs and accounting for half of the UK’s income.

The Tories have wilfully moved away from conservative policies in recent years, to the extent that they can no longer reasonably be called Conservatives. Moreover, if the Social Contract is an implicit agreement between the people and their government about what each side provides to the other, the Tories have clearly broken this contract. A few quick examples below:

Implemented a hostile economic environment for small business people
Imposed the Northern Ireland Protocol / effective annexation of NI to the EU
Failed to take full advantage of Brexit – abject failure to escape the stagnancy-inducing, anti-competitive regulation of the EU
Pursued an irrational decarbonisation policy, whilst dishonestly offshoring UK’s heavy industry and carbon footprint
Wilfully neglected young people – university degree courses now the preserve of the wealthy
Govt spending completely out of control – public debt ballooning from 40% to 100% of GDP in two decades
Excessive reliance on 957 undemocratic & unaccountable quangos

Reform-UK is unique in that it’s appealing to people right across the socio economic spectrum, united by common concerns and a love of country. My decision to stand for election with Reform-UK stems from a profound belief that a new approach is required.

You’re the Spokesman for Godalming and Ash what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I grew up in Normandy / Ash area of Surrey and was state-educated in a variety of schools across Guildford & Godalming up until the age of 18. Godalming VI Form College helped me to win a place at university and I purchased my first house on Brighton Road in Godalming. Whilst I now live in Guildford, I have a strong affinity with South West Surrey and retain many friends in the area.

“if I had one extra hour every day to devote to a specific cause, I would focus on undoing some of the anti-business policies which the Tories have introduced and which makes us all as a country so uncompetitive”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion

NHS waiting lists – 1 in 3 (33%) of constituents waiting six months or more for NHS treatment
GP appointments inaccessible – almost 6 in 10 people (59%) advise that friends or family had experienced difficulty in booking a GP appointment and nearly half (47%) struggled to book an appointment themselves.
Cost of living – (63%) of local constituents feel their “quality of life is deteriorating” due to the cost of living crisis. 46% of constituents said they’d reduced spending on ‘basic necessities, like food’, while 38% had worried about paying essential bills, like rent or mortgages
“Vision Zero” Road Safety Strategy – anti-car policies – car & van drivers under attack on at least 4 fronts, as a result of a culture of “safety at any cost” – creeping, collective targets and limits all set without reference to the people who will be expected to meet them.
Ongoing attacks on local Small & Medium Businesses (SMEs) – marginal rate of corp tax now reached 26.5%, VAT threshold freeze, increases in dividend tax, introduction of off-payroll working rules (i.e. IR35) – all utterly unconservative policies which have made Godalming & Ash (and the UK generally) an extremely challenging place for entrepreneurialism & innovation

Whilst all of these areas need to be addressed, if I had one extra hour every day to devote to a specific cause, I would focus on undoing some of the anti-business policies which the Tories have introduced and which makes us all as a country so uncompetitive. As stated above, since SMEs are the beating-heart of our economy, providing 16m jobs and accounting for half of the UK’s income, if we can begin to unpick some of the problems created by the “Conservatives”, this would go a long way to generating a more conducive business environment, more jobs and greater disposal income for South West Surrey at large.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

For residents of Godalming & Ash who are motivated to get involved in our campaign, we would be delighted to receive any help they can provide. Whether this comes in the form of assistance with leafleting and canvassing across our sizeable constituency , a small donation to our GoFundMe fund-raising-initiative or some engagement on our Facebook / Twitter pages, we welcome all involvement, small or large:

Canvassing and Leafleting Support, please email me, Graham Drage, at: [email protected]
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/9871adf4
Facebook: Reform UK Godalming and Ash
X (Twitter): @ReformGodalming

Andrew Banwell, Reform UK candidate for Thornbury and Yate

Andrew Banwell is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Thornbury and Yate. We spoke with Andrew about his decision to stand.

“My decision to stand for Reform UK was driven by my belief in the party’s principles of democracy, freedom, and accountability”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a dedicated family man, IT engineer, and a long-standing member of the Dyrham and Hinton Parish Council. My diverse career background spans from being a bus and lorry driver to various other roles that have given me a broad perspective on the needs and concerns of people from all walks of life. My commitment to serving the community has now led me to stand as a potential parliamentary candidate for Thornbury and Yate with Reform UK.

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

My decision to stand for Reform UK was driven by my belief in the party’s principles of democracy, freedom, and accountability. I feel strongly about the need for genuine reform within our political system to address the challenges facing our nation. Reform UK’s focus on these values aligns with my own vision for a fairer, more prosperous country.

“My decision to represent this constituency stems from a desire to advocate for local interests and ensure our community’s needs are heard and addressed”

You’re the Spokesman for Thornbury and Yate; what’s made you decide to represent this area?

Having lived and worked in and around Thornbury and Yate for many years, I have developed a deep connection to the area and its people. My decision to represent this constituency stems from a desire to advocate for local interests and ensure our community’s needs are heard and addressed at the national level.

“The key concerns for our constituency include improving local infrastructure, enhancing public services, and supporting economic growth to benefit all residents”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency, and what issues do you hope to champion?

The key concerns for our constituency include improving local infrastructure, enhancing public services, and supporting economic growth to benefit all residents. I am particularly passionate about addressing healthcare accessibility, education quality, and environmental sustainability. Championing these issues will be my priority, ensuring Thornbury and Yate thrives as a vibrant, inclusive community.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Anyone interested in supporting our campaign can get involved in several ways. You can follow us on Facebook REFORM UK (Thornbury & Yate) | Facebook] for updates and events. Additionally, volunteers can email us at [email protected] for more information on how to contribute. Whether it’s through social media engagement, canvassing, or participating in events, every bit of help is greatly appreciated.