Joanna Bishop is the Reform UK candidate for the Sutton Central ward by-election in the London Borough of Sutton. We spoke with Joanna about her decision to stand.
“I felt we had been gradually suffocated by the red tape and regulations putting a strain on businesses and making the future seem quite bleak”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
My name is Joanna Bishop and I am standing in the Sutton Central ward by-election for the London Borough of Sutton. I have lived in Sutton for 23 years and the wider local area for my entire life.
I decided to run as a candidate having become disillusioned with the successive governments over the past couple of decades. I have always followed politics to a degree but I never felt compelled to join a party before. I started to pay more attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it struck me how badly our country was being run. I felt we had been gradually suffocated by the red tape and regulations putting a strain on businesses and making the future seem quite bleak. Nigel Farage has been on my radar for some time, and I have massive respect for his bravery in standing up and challenging the establishment. I read every word of Reforms contract to the people before the July 2024 general election, and it resonated with me in such a way that I felt compelled to not only vote for Reform but to get stuck in and help.
I have a burning desire to help Reform flourish from grass roots up. I feel like local residents have become so used to inefficient and sometimes incompetent councillors that that’s what they now expect. I would love to turn that around and establish a local support network where I can meet and speak with residents on local issues.
“Sutton high street is the target of shoplifters and local residential properties and vehicles are being targeted by thieves on a regular basis”
You’re the candidate for Sutton Central. What are the main concerns in the area?
Although the violent crime rate is low in Sutton in comparison to the other London boroughs it is still prevalent, and residents would like to see more police presence on our streets. Sutton high street is the target of shoplifters and local residential properties and vehicles are being targeted by thieves on a regular basis.
Local residents have been calling out for their council representative to be accessible and for their concerns to be listened to. I pledge to be a strong voice on the council so that the resident’s voices will finally be heard.
“The council needs to spend the residents’ tax more wisely and cut waste”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Sutton and if elected what do you hope to champion?
Overhaul Suttons infrastructure. Reduce the mass of restrictions on our roads. Reverse the ULEZ expansion. Better transport links and affordable housing. The council needs to spend the residents’ tax more wisely and cut waste.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
“local residents have become so used to inefficient and sometimes incompetent councillors that that’s what they now expect. I would love to turn that around”
Maxine Fothergill is the Reform UK candidate for Sevenoaks Rural North East in May’s Kent County Council elections. We spoke with Maxine about her decision to stand.
“I have a strong track record of standing up for my community, both as a business owner for over 23 years and through my extensive experience in local government”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I’m Maxine Fothergill, the Reform UK candidate for Sevenoaks Rural North East in the Kent County Council elections. I am leading the local campaign for Reform UK because I believe our area needs stronger representation, real action, and a fresh approach to tackling the issues that matter most to residents.
I have a strong track record of standing up for my community, both as a business owner for over 23 years and through my extensive experience in local government. I decided to run because I see the growing challenges in our area—from the threat to our Green Belt to the worsening state of our roads—and I want to be a strong, independent voice for local residents. Unlike the main parties, I’m not tied to Westminster politics; my priority is fighting for what truly matters to the people of Sevenoaks Rural North East.
I have a long history in local government, having lived in Bexley for 30 years and serving as a councillor in Bexley for eight years. After moving to Sevenoaks Rural North East, I became frustrated with the main political parties and their failure to put local communities first. This led me to stand as an Independent councillor, running on my own mandate—and in doing so, I made history. I successfully won a seat in Fawkham and West Kingsdown, taking it from the Conservatives for the first time ever. From 2019 to 2023, I served as Deputy Leader of the Independent Group on Sevenoaks District Council, working hard to challenge poor decision-making and push for real change. Unfortunately, I lost my seat in the last election due to a split vote, largely caused by paper candidates from the Conservatives and the Green Party.
Beyond local politics, I have long been a supporter of Nigel Farage and his efforts to challenge the establishment. I was actively involved in campaigning for the Brexit Party, particularly during the MEP elections and London Mayoral elections. I was also honoured to be selected as the Parliamentary candidate for Old Bexley and Sidcup, where, despite having just a four-week campaign, we achieved an incredible result—winning 10,384 votes and 21.8% of the vote share, significantly improving on the previous 6% result in the 2021 by-election.
My political journey has always been about putting local people first, standing up for what’s right, and ensuring that the voices of residents are not ignored. That is exactly what I will do if elected as your Kent County Councillor for Sevenoaks Rural North East, standing proudly as your Reform UK candidate.
“The condition of our roads is one of the biggest frustrations for residents. Potholes and poor maintenance are causing serious damage to vehicles, and many drivers have had to replace tyres or pay for costly repairs”
You’re the candidate for Sevenoaks Rural North East. What are the main concerns in the area?
As the Reform UK candidate for Sevenoaks Rural North East, I am campaigning on the real local issues that residents have told me matter most to them. These include:
• Protecting Our Green Belt – Our beautiful countryside is under threat from large-scale solar farm applications and inappropriate housing developments. At least five solar farms are currently proposed, which would destroy productive farmland and damage the rural character of our area. I will fight to challenge these developments and ensure local residents’ views are properly considered in planning decisions.
• Fixing Our Roads – The condition of our roads is one of the biggest frustrations for residents. Potholes and poor maintenance are causing serious damage to vehicles, and many drivers have had to replace tyres or pay for costly repairs. I will push for proper investment in long-term road maintenance rather than temporary patch-up jobs that don’t last.
• Tackling Fly-Tipping – Illegal dumping is a growing problem in our rural areas, damaging our environment and putting unfair costs on landowners and farmers who are left to clear up the mess. I will push for stronger enforcement, tougher penalties for offenders, and better waste disposal solutions to prevent fly-tipping and hold those responsible to account.
Beyond these key issues, I know that many families in our area are struggling. West Kingsdown has one of the largest food banks in the area, showing just how many people need extra support. Meanwhile, elderly residents who have lost their winter fuel allowance are finding it harder to afford heating, and many don’t have the technology or assistance to apply for financial help. I will work with local partners to secure more support for our community and ensure the most vulnerable are not left behind.
If elected, I will be a determined voice for Sevenoaks Rural North East, ensuring that local concerns are heard and acted upon.
“I won’t make promises I can’t keep, but I will work tirelessly to ensure that Sevenoaks Rural North East gets the attention and investment it deserves”
What do you see as the major issues more widely across Kent, and if elected, what do you hope to champion?
Across Kent, we are facing many of the same challenges—overdevelopment, failing infrastructure, and underfunded local services—but these issues hit Sevenoaks Rural North East particularly hard. As the Reform UK candidate, I will work to ensure our area gets the support and investment it desperately needs.
• Overdevelopment and Planning Concerns – Across Kent, overdevelopment is putting pressure on local infrastructure, roads, and services. In our area, this is particularly evident in the growing number of solar farm applications, which threaten our best agricultural land. I will fight to ensure that rural communities are protected and that sustainable planning decisions are made with residents’ concerns in mind.
• Investment in Local Infrastructure – Kent’s infrastructure is struggling to keep up with demand, and Sevenoaks Rural North East is often overlooked when funding decisions are made. I will push for better road repairs, improved transport links, and stronger investment in local services to ensure our area is not left behind.
• Better Waste and Environmental Management – Fly-tipping is a county-wide issue, but it is particularly damaging in rural areas like ours. I will push for tougher action against offenders, as well as better local waste disposal facilities so that people are less likely to resort to illegal dumping.
• Support for Vulnerable Residents – Many elderly residents and struggling families in Kent are not getting the help they need. I will work to secure more local funding for community support services, ensuring that those most in need—including those without internet access—are not left behind.
I won’t make promises I can’t keep, but I will work tirelessly to ensure that Sevenoaks Rural North East gets the attention and investment it deserves, standing proudly as your Reform UK candidate.
“I decided to run because I see the growing challenges in our area—from the threat to our Green Belt to the worsening state of our roads—and I want to be a strong, independent voice for local residents”
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
I encourage everyone to follow my campaign for updates and ways to get involved:
Following threats of protest at the venue in Purley for our meeting on the 19th March, we have sadly had to cancel the event.
Local elections in London are due in May 2026. Reform UK are making inroads across the capital with some polls showing them leading in Bromley & Biggin Hill, and Croydon East constituencies, among others.
Join us on Wednesday 19th March for our drinks and conversation with Alan and Scott. We will be discussing where they are with their planning for the local elections and where Reform UK is more generally.
For drinks, a conversation and Q&A with Alan and Scott about the Reform UK local plans, come along Wednesday 19th March at 7pm
This is part of our #ThirdWednesday drinks and events, we hold these in association with Dick Delingpole’s #ThirdWednesday Libertarian drinks club, and POLITICS in PUBS a group of people from across the political spectrum who value the freedom to question and to speak openly.
Mahendra Negi is the Reform UK candidate for the Alperton ward by-election on Tuesday 18 February in the London Borough of Brent. We spoke with Mahendra about his decision to stand.
“after four decades of experience working with Banks and IT services, I took voluntary retirement in 2022. I have since devoted myself to voluntary work across the community”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
My name is Mahendra Negi, and I am standing in the Alperton ward by-election for the London Borough of Brent. I live in Wembley, Brent and after four decades of experience working with Banks and IT services, I took voluntary retirement in 2022. I have since devoted myself to voluntary work across the community, volunteering within education, social services and the Metropolitan Police.
I have been on two educational panels and a Governor at three schools in Brent. Recently, I have also been elected to chair a Ward Panel for the Safer Neighbourhood Teams initiative. I am part of the Brent India Association and Brent Indian Community, and an active participant in various cultural activities, through Sanatan Charities, temples and SwamiNarayan sanstha.
As a volunteer, I have also had opportunities to participate in school visits to mosques and churches. These initiatives and my participation in the Brent Multi Faith Forum, enable me to contribute towards promoting inter-faith dialogue and harmony within our various communities.
What are the main concerns in the area? “The availability of fair and affordable homes for local families in Alperton and the abysmal tenant satisfaction rates of council tenants”
You’re the candidate for Alperton. What are the main concerns in the area?
The state and safety of our streets. The availability of fair and affordable homes for local families in Alperton and the abysmal tenant satisfaction rates of council tenants. The need for infrastructure to match the community’s needs with ongoing developments.
“The cost of living being compounded by council tax increases and waste across the council”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Brent and if elected what do you hope to champion?
The cost of living being compounded by council tax increases and waste across the council. Much needed support for small local businesses and available parking.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
The Labour government is undertaking consultations to reorganise local government, part of which may mean the cancellation of local elections in Surrey. This has led to an extraordinary meeting of Surrey County Council to be held on 8th January 2025.
The Surrey Reform UK team have asked local supporters to write to their county councillors to reject the postponement of May 2025 elections, using text from the template provided below. With the meeting being held on the 8th January, time is of the essence. Whilst written for Reform members anyone based in Surrey could use the template. If you want to support democracy and local elections going ahead, please write out before the January 8th meeting.
RE: Extraordinary meeting of Surrey County Council to be held 8th January 2025
As a constituent and voter in your division, I would like to stress my concerns around the details and expectations of the above meeting. I shall not comment on the Governments Devolution and Local Government Reform proposals which the Council is asked to endorse.
My concerns are;
Deciding to postpone elections without consultation with ones constituents is flagrantly undemocratic.
The current crop of councilors have served their fixed term of office and will hold no democratic mandate from May 2025 onwards.
The proposed timeline for the completion of devolution by May 2026, in order to hold elections, is purely aspirational. There are no legally binding assurances with the actions of Westminster and their legislative calendars will now control the timelines of local democracy.
With no mandate for these changes in the current Labour Governments manifesto and current councilors having reached the end of the fixed term. The public has the right to elect a new crop of councilors who may better represent the views and wishes of their constituents.
In conclusion, I ask you to consider my concerns and vote to ensure County Council elections are held in May 2025.
My name is Vinayak Malhotra, and I had the honour of being the parliamentary candidate for the Croydon West constituency in the recent General Election, representing Reform UK. As I embarked on this journey, I was greeted with a wide array of public reactions and experiences that highlighted the spirit of our community. Alongside meaningful interactions with residents, I encountered some unexpectedly humorous moments that made my campaign truly memorable.
“The warmth and openness of the people, young and old (and even a few friendly animals), made the experience truly special”
I was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from the public during my canvassing efforts in Croydon West. The warmth and openness of the people, young and old (and even a few friendly animals), made the experience truly special. One of the more charming surprises was encountering the friendly cats of Croydon, who seemed just as curious about Reform UK as the residents!
A few interactions really stood out to me. There was a wonderful couple who not only supported me by signing my nomination form but went a step further and generously offered their office space for my use throughout the campaign. Their kindness was a reminder of the incredible community spirit that Croydon thrives on.
I also met a lovely elderly lady who reminded me of my late maternal grandmother. She was so sweet and welcoming, insisting on a chat over tea, making me feel right at home. Another older couple, captivated by my energy and enthusiasm, not only offered words of encouragement but also gave me some sweets, which lifted my spirits during a long day of canvassing.
“He told me he’d definitely vote for me, simply because he admired my dedication to going door to door all on my own”
One unexpected companion was a fluffy blonde cat who decided to keep me company while I went door to door. This little furball stuck by my side for hours, as if it were my personal campaign mascot! Even the local postmen were in good spirits, often handing me rubber bands to keep my leaflets organised.
Another moment that really touched me was when I met a friendly young man, around my age, who spotted me canvassing in the rain. He told me he’d definitely vote for me, simply because he admired my dedication to going door to door all on my own. His words meant a lot and reminded me that perseverance is always noticed.
I also began to be recognised by people throughout the constituency—surprisingly, most of them were women. Some had seen my photos in online interviews, while others remembered me from my campaign efforts across Croydon West. It was both humbling and heart-warming to know that my presence and message were reaching people in the community.
“some assumed I might be some sort of ghost candidate. The situation became even funnier when the journalist covering the election met me in person at the count. We had a good laugh when they finally realised, I did, in fact, exist!”
One of the more humorous moments during my campaign was when people online—and even a journalist—started questioning whether I was a real person! Since I’m not on social media and there wasn’t much information about me available online, some assumed I might be some sort of ghost candidate. The situation became even funnier when the journalist covering the election met me in person at the count. We had a good laugh when they finally realised, I did, in fact, exist!
One of the most pressing changes I want to see in Croydon West is an increase in affordable housing. It’s crucial that everyone in our community has access to safe and affordable places to live.
Additionally, addressing the rise in knife crime, drugs, anti-social behaviour, and crime in general is essential for creating a safer environment for all residents.
“Having dedicated local branches in various boroughs will significantly strengthen our presence and provide a solid foundation for future campaigns”
I also believe that fostering greater belief in and support for Reform UK will be pivotal. With increased community backing, we can work towards electing more Reform UK councillors and, ultimately, our own MP in the next general election.
This grassroots support is vital for driving the positive changes we all wish to see in our town.
Reform UK is rapidly expanding, with new branches being set up across the country, including here in London and Croydon. Having dedicated local branches in various boroughs will significantly strengthen our presence and provide a solid foundation for future campaigns. This structure will not only help us in the upcoming local councillor elections but also position us for greater success in future general elections. By establishing a stronger connection with local communities, we’ll be better equipped to address the issues that matter most to them and represent their voices on both a local and national level.
On a personal note, I’ve already made an application to stand in the upcoming councillor elections, though it’s still very early to know more about that. Additionally, I have been made the treasurer of my local branch.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Croydon Constitutionalists for this opportunity to share my experiences. I truly enjoyed doing these interviews and engaging with the community through this platform. Your support and encouragement mean a lot to me as we work together to drive positive change in Croydon West!
Reform UK are in the process of setting up local branches across the country. Locally Scott Holman the Reform UK general election candidate in Croydon East, has become the chair the new Croydon & Sutton Branch.
Join us on Wednesday 16th October for our drinks and conversation and with Scott. We will discuss his new role, Reform’s plans locally and some of their ideas for Croydon and Sutton.
For drinks, a conversation and Q&A with Scott about the Reform UK local plans, come along Wednesday 16th October at 7pm
This is part of our #ThirdWednesday drinks and events, we hold these in association with Dick Delingpole’s #ThirdWednesday Libertarian drinks club, and POLITICS in PUBS a group of people from across the political spectrum who value the freedom to question and to speak openly.
Marco Manassero is the Reform UK candidate for South Acton ward in Ealing, in the council by-election to be held on 10th October. We spoke with Marco about his decision to stand.
“In Ealing, Labour’s long-term control has led to complacency, and the issues facing our community have not been adequately addressed”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
My name is Marco Manassero, an Italian-born, British-naturalised insurance professional and entrepreneur. After graduating from a leading European business school, I relocated to the UK in 2012 and later founded my own company. I am married with two daughters. I’ve always had a keen interest in politics, but my career and family have taken up most of my time and energy. However, the recent moral and economic decline of our country has pushed me to take action. In Ealing, Labour’s long-term control has led to complacency, and the issues facing our community have not been adequately addressed. I am standing as the Reform UK candidate because I believe we need fresh leadership and accountability. A vote for the same old parties is a vote for more of the same failures. Only Reform UK will stand up for the people of Ealing and deliver real change.
“Overdevelopment is another serious concern. While new homes are necessary, development must be balanced with adequate infrastructure”
You’re the candidate for South Acton. What are the main concerns in the area?
In my view, the most pressing issues in South Acton are crime and overdevelopment. Residents are particularly concerned about the rise in violence against women, drug use and anti-social behaviour, all of which are linked to a lack of police presence on our streets. Labour’s leadership has clearly failed to address these serious issues and far too often crimes go uninvestigated.
Overdevelopment is another serious concern. While new homes are necessary, development must be balanced with adequate infrastructure, including schools, parking, GP services and public transport.
“If elected, I would prioritise holding the Labour-run Ealing Council to account, working closely with the local police to address increasing crime levels”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Ealing and if elected what do you hope to champion?
Ealing faces a variety of challenges, many of which are also present in South Acton: rising crime, limited access to health and social care services, overdevelopment, anti-motorist measures and a lack of local job opportunities. If elected, I would prioritise holding the Labour-run Ealing Council to account, working closely with the local police to address increasing crime levels and promoting neighbourhood watch initiatives. I would also ensure that property development is managed responsibly and aligned with necessary improvements in infrastructure.
Additionally, I would hold regular community meetings to listen to concerns and ensure transparency. By engaging with the community, we can work together to make South Acton a safer and more vibrant place to live.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
We welcome support from residents of South Acton and neighbouring areas. There are many ways to get involved, from leafleting to speaking with voters or sharing our message on social media. If you’d like to help, please contact us on Twitter/X @MgManassero or via email at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you and work together to make a difference.
Fabio Pukaj is the Reform UK candidate for Hanger Hill ward in Ealing, in the council by-election to be held on 10th October. We spoke with Fabio about his decision to stand.
“I’m driven by the hope of bringing that same spirit of possibility to Hanger Lane, with a vision of creating a community where everyone can reach their full potential”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
When I was 16, I took my first leap into running my own online business. It wasn’t just about making money; it was about learning how to truly connect with people and create meaningful opportunities. Alongside this, my summer job as a waiter taught me the grit and resilience needed to push through tough times.
These experiences have deeply shaped my understanding of how vital opportunities are and sparked a fire in me to help others find their own path to success. Now, at 21, I’m driven by the hope of bringing that same spirit of possibility to Hanger Lane, with a vision of creating a community where everyone can reach their full potential and live their best lives.
“Many residents are worried about crime, struggling with poverty, and feeling frustrated by too many rules that make life difficult”
You’re the candidate for Hanger Hill ward what are the main concerns in the area?
From a young age, I’ve been connected to Hanger Lane, not just geographically but through the relationships I’ve built and the time I’ve spent in the area. My experiences living close by have given me an understanding of what the community needs to thrive. Over the years, I’ve seen first hand how local issues like rising crime, limited opportunities, and unnecessary regulations have impacted the daily lives of residents.
These experiences have inspired me to run as a candidate with Reform UK, with a mission to create meaningful opportunities and build a safer, more prosperous Hanger Lane. I believe that together, we can unlock the full potential of our community, ensuring that it’s a place where everyone can feel secure, grow, and succeed.
Many residents are worried about crime, struggling with poverty, and feeling frustrated by too many rules that make life difficult. I’m running for you to help solve these problems on day one. I want to make Hanger Lane a place where people can walk home at night without looking over your shoulder, where you don’t have to worry about the threat of being harmed. A community where people feel secure, where children can play outside without fear, and where you’re not held back by unnecessary obstacles.
My goal is to build a Hanger Lane that supports you—where there are more opportunities, and where families can live peacefully and thrive without constant worry or fear.
“Ealing faces broader challenges, such as outdated infrastructure and limited access to essential resources. These issues affect all of us, and I am fully committed to tackling them head-on”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Ealing and if elected what do you hope to champion?
The residents’ biggest concerns are mine too: rising crime, lack of support, and too many restrictions.
If I’m elected, I’ll work hard to reduce crime in our community, provide better support for those who need it, and get rid of rules that make life harder for residents and their families on day one. My focus is on listening to residents needs and delivering solutions that make a real difference in their everyday life.
Furthermore, Ealing faces broader challenges, such as outdated infrastructure and limited access to essential resources. These issues affect all of us, and I am fully committed to tackling them head-on. My vision is to breathe new life into our community, ensuring that everyone has the support and opportunities they deserve. Together, we can build the strongest, most united Ealing the world has ever seen, where every resident has the chance to succeed.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
If you’d like to share your ideas or concerns, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]. I’m here for you and ready to act on what matters most to you.
