With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with David Booth, Reform UK candidate for Kenley.
“We badly need to be governed by people who care about the country’s future”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I am standing for Reform in Kenley because I am fed up.
We badly need to be governed by people who care about the country’s future. At the very least, that means keeping us safe, defending our borders, protecting our institutions and respecting our history. Labour is doing none of those things. The Tories are once again talking conservative but they have shown repeatedly that they cannot be trusted in power.
Between them, the established parties have also driven the economy into the ground, by destroying incentives and losing control of spending, locally as well as nationally.
I am hopeful for the future too.
Reform has put together a programme to put things right, including radical legislation to restore the sovereignty of parliament and start rebuilding Britain as a prosperous, multi-ethnic but culturally coherent, nation-state, based on mutual respect and love of country.
I was brought up in Essex and spent a long career in research and teaching. My home has been Purley for the last 25 years and I spend much of my leisure time in Kenley. The common, and the airfield and its traditions, are close to my heart.
I shall be proud to represent the interests of the ward if Kenley voters choose to elect me.
” the established parties have also driven the economy into the ground, by destroying incentives and losing control of spending”
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Anna Hills, Reform UK candidate for Coulsdon Town.
“I’m passionate about our nation and the ward I reside in. I’ve lived in the area for almost 20 years”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I’m representing Reform UK for Councillor in Coulsdon Town in the May 2026 by-election because I’m passionate about our nation and the ward I reside in. I’ve lived in the area for almost 20 years and together with my husband run a boiler maintenance business. Married for 34 years, we have two grown up children and have recently become grandparents.
“Lack of parking in Coulsdon Town. Many residents live up steep hills in the ward and are heavily reliant on their vehicles for work and shopping”
What do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
While knocking on doors and speaking to the residents in Coulsdon Town ward, these are the main issues affecting the residents and if I’m elected would like to look into and help:
The ever-increasing council tax bill. Reform need to look at the finances as currently under the uni-parties, Croydon is £1.4 Billion in debt and even with the £119 million injection from Central Government will not be able to bail this council out of debt. The residents will keep paying interest on the loans for many years penalising Croydon’s residents.
The state of the roads and wear on vehicles as a consequence of pot holes.
Lack of parking in Coulsdon Town. Many residents live up steep hills in the ward and are heavily reliant on their vehicles for work and shopping.
Direct trains to Victoria from Woodmansterne and Coulsdon Town stations no longer operate and travellers have to change at East Croydon or walk to Coulsdon South station for direct trains.
Town centre safety at night is a concern for individuals and some residents would like to see foot police patrolling the streets. Anti-social behaviour after pub tipping out time is affecting shopkeeper’s premises and one reported his glass fronted shop door had been smashed.
As far as central Croydon is concerned, there are serious issues with safety and shops are closing rapidly. This can only lead to a ghost town situation and the temptation of a reduction or removal of business rates would help in light of the financial strains small businesses are being affected by currently. People talk about shopping elsewhere.
On national issues, I have been heavily involved in the Anti ULEZ movement and in support of farmers by attending many of their rallies. Reform’s motto of Family, Community and Country will play a big part in any decisions made should I be elected. Being able to assist Coulsdon residents as one of Reform’s first councillors in Croydon will be a privilege. Together we can make the changes needed to keep improving the ward.
“I have been heavily involved in the Anti ULEZ movement and in support of farmers by attending many of their rallies”
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Jonathan Clarke, Reform UK candidate for Shirley North.
“I want to see Croydon well managed, financially responsible, and focused on the everyday concerns of the people who live and work here”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I am standing as a Reform UK in Shirley North because I care deeply about the future of our borough and believe local residents deserve better from their council. I want to see Croydon well managed, financially responsible, and focused on the everyday concerns of the people who live and work here.
Both nationally and locally, the UK is in need of positive change.
I grew up in the Borough of Croydon and have spent most of my adult life living here. I am a family man and work in legal services, and like many residents I want to see our area thrive – with safe streets, reliable services, and opportunities for future generations.
“At council level, that means living within our means, focusing on core services, delivering value for money”
What do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
Over recent years, Croydon has faced real challenges. Residents see the impact in day-to-day life: pressure on services, rising council tax, and difficult financial decisions that have affected confidence in local government. Many people feel the council lacks a clear long-term plan and stronger financial discipline.
Local government should always put residents first. Too often, people feel decisions are made without proper engagement or a clear focus on delivery. It’s understandable that residents and local businesses feel they are paying more while receiving less in return.
Reform UK believes in sensible politics and professional management, both locally and nationally. At council level, that means living within our means, focusing on core services, delivering value for money, and being open, transparent and accountable to residents.
Croydon has real potential. London should be a thriving, booming global city of culture, creativity and opportunity – and Croydon should fully share in that success.
I am standing to help restore confidence, competence and community pride, and to ensure local government works better for the people who live, work and pay their taxes here.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Angus MacDonald, Reform UK candidate for Old Coulsdon.
“I was born in London and spent my early years in Streatham. I have been a resident in the Coulsdon/Purley area for the last 46 years”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I was born in London and spent my early years in Streatham. I have been a resident in the Coulsdon/Purley area for the last 46 years and married for 52 years with two grown up children & 4 grandchildren.
Recently retired, I am a Chartered Consulting Engineer and worked in the construction industry I established my own Consultancy Practice in 1988 based in Sutton and latterly in the borough of Croydon.
“I have watched from the sidelines with dismay the gradual decline of the borough of Croydon”
What do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
I have watched from the sidelines with dismay the gradual decline of the borough of Croydon under various administrations decaying from a forward-looking modern town centre built largely in the 60’s, to be reduced to an indebted, shadow of its former glory as a thriving centre of commerce. The incompetence of previous administrations has led to vast debts which will probably never be repaid, leaving local council taxpayers on the hook for significant debt repayments far into the future.
I am now, both angered and saddened by the state of the borough and I have reached to point at which I feel I have to do something to arrest the decline and be an active participant in rebuilding the borough. I believe a Reform administration can make a material difference to the direction Croydon must take.
I now have the time and energy to put something back into Croydon and hitherto under the two-party system, saw nothing to choose between them. I have been inspired by the advent of a 3rd force in politics, with an agenda for real change and a break with the past.
The new energy that is apparent, both in the new party and the population at large will enable us to inject new perspectives into the debate and have a material impact on people’s lives in the borough.
“both angered and saddened by the state of the borough and I have reached to point at which I feel I have to do something to arrest the decline”
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Susan Millward, Reform UK candidate for Crystal Palace and Upper Norwood.
“I would like to see our area of London cleaned up and restored to how I remember it some years ago”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I am 72 years old, was born in Camberwell, grew up in East Dulwich, moved to Croydon around 45 years ago.
Worked from age 16 to 60 years old, secretarial and administration roles, one of which was as secretary to the Head Postmaster of Croydon. I am married to Roger and am now his main carer. I enjoy travelling and socialising with friends, gardening and chatting with neighbours.
I would like to see our area of London cleaned up and restored to how I remember it some years ago.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Alicia Bunn, Reform UK candidate for Shirley North.
“having lived across the UK and abroad, I’ve seen how much difference safe, green, welcoming neighbourhoods make to families and communities”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
My family roots in Croydon go back to my grandmother’s generation, and although I only moved here eight years ago, the borough quickly became an important part of my social and working life. I both live and run my design practice here, and having lived across the UK and abroad, I’ve seen how much difference safe, green, welcoming neighbourhoods make to families and communities.
“My focus is on improving wellbeing and day-to-day life: safer, better-managed streets”
What do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
Shirley North should be a place where people feel safe, take pride in where they live, and see their area properly supported — with council tax spent where it makes a real difference.
From speaking to residents, it’s clear that people want safer streets, well-maintained public spaces and a stronger sense of community — both locally and across Croydon, including a town centre that feels safer, more welcoming and better managed, without Shirley North being overlooked.
I run a Croydon-based design practice and bring experience delivering large-scale projects in the UK and internationally. My work has involved managing budgets, coordinating teams and delivering complex projects – giving me a practical understanding of how to turn ideas into real improvements.
My focus is on improving wellbeing and day-to-day life: safer, better-managed streets; real investment in green spaces and the high street; and housing that raises standards while protecting what people value – creating a place where everyone, including women, children and older residents, feels secure and supported.
I’m standing to listen, represent and deliver real improvements for local residents.
Drawing on my experience delivering complex projects, my priorities are:
Safer Communities, Tackling Crime – Cracking down on crime and anti-social behaviour while improving everyday safety across streets, public spaces and the town centre — so residents feel secure and confident where they live.
Pride in Place, Putting Residents First – Investing in green spaces, public areas and the high street to create well-designed, usable places – with better facilities and spaces that naturally bring people together.
Better Housing, Higher Standards – Improving housing quality, tackling poor conditions, and supporting well-designed homes that make best use of space, deliver real value, and respect the character of the area.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Brian Putman, Reform UK candidate for Selhurst.
“Reforming Croydon Council cannot wait. Croydon Council too often doesn’t get the basics right”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
Hello, my name is Brian. I am an English Christian who has lived in Selhurst since 2011 and married a Nigerian woman in South Norwood in 2015. I am a law graduate and a qualified counsellor.
I am standing for Reform to represent and serve residents of Selhurst in the 2026 local elections.
What do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
Reforming Croydon Council cannot wait. Croydon Council too often doesn’t get the basics right, for instance the website croydon.gov.uk remains much it was when originally registered. It is close to unusable for many residents.
I will work with Council Cabinet members and staff to redesign a functional and modern website that is accessible and effective for Croydon residents and visitors. I have personal experience in using Croydon Council’s housing services and dispute resolution procedures. My professional life has included automation of financial services contracts, reducing costs by 30% and ensuring absolute data integrity.
Croydon Council needs to be reformed to work for residents.
Elect me, Brian Putman for Reform UK to represent the residents of Selhurst Ward in May 2026.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Antony Vundi, Reform UK candidate for Shirley South.
“I decided to stand because I am tired of the repeated letdowns and broken promises from the same crop of Conservative and Labour local politicians”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I grew up in Croydon, attending both primary and secondary school in the borough after moving to the United Kingdom at the age of six, without speaking a word of English. My parents were strong advocates of integrating into British culture, and within approximately three months, I had learned the language—so much so that today, many people are surprised to learn that English is not my first language!
While my parents gave me a great deal of freedom growing up, they also instilled in me the belief that there is no substitute for hard work and self-discipline. That mindset led me to begin working at 16 in a major retail store on Purley Way, even before sitting my GCSEs! I continued working throughout sixth form and later chose a degree apprenticeship, as I wanted to keep earning and gaining practical experience rather than pursue the traditional university route.
That background has shaped who I am today-one of the youngest Solicitors of the Senior Courts of England and Wales.
I decided to stand because I am tired of the repeated letdowns and broken promises from the same crop of Conservative and Labour local politicians. I am frustrated with hearing from scripted career politicians and want to see real, straight-talking, and competent leadership in the Council—people who are focused on running it efficiently and being accountable to the public.
After years of complaining about the lack of such leadership, I asked myself: why not me? Why can’t I deliver the change I want to see? At only 25, I have already beaten the odds in my academic and professional life but I want to take on a new challenge—in the service of ALL the people of Shirley South.
“Motorists in Shirley, in particular, have borne the brunt of these policies. Many have been penalised by LTNs across Croydon that were later ruled unlawful, having been implemented for revenue generation rather than genuine safety concerns”
You’re the prospective candidate for Shirley South ward, what are the major concerns in the area?
Shirley South is defined by the suburban character that so strongly shapes our borough. That is precisely why many residents question why such a sprawling, car-dependent area – poorly served by public transport – appears increasingly hostile to motorists. The nearest Underground station is some seven miles away in Brixton. Policies designed for Inner London simply do not translate well here, particularly when neighbouring Bromley demonstrates that a more balanced approach can maintain equal or better road safety outcomes.
Motorists in Shirley, in particular, have borne the brunt of these policies. Many have been penalised by LTNs across Croydon that were later ruled unlawful, having been implemented for revenue generation rather than genuine safety concerns. A blanket 20mph speed limit has been imposed across the area, often without regard for local context – for example, along stretches such as Shirley Church Road and Oaks Road, where such restrictions appear disproportionate. These policies were introduced under a Labour administration and remained largely unchanged during four years of Conservative control of the Council.
Residents face further frustration when navigating the borough. Attempting something as routine as picking up a family member from East Croydon station can result in fines from a yellow box junction that has generated substantial income for the council, despite growing questions over its legality. Meanwhile, basic road maintenance has been neglected: potholes – most notably in Shirley Hills car park—remain unrepaired, and roads have gone unsalted during winter conditions.
Public transport offers little relief. The ward suffers from limited rail access and inconsistent bus services. Residents have even endured winters without bus stop shelters due to disputes between the council and Transport for London. And, time and again, the long-discussed “bridge to nowhere” at East Croydon station is raised on the doorstep as a symbol of missed opportunities and poor delivery.
“To summarise: Westfield and West Croydon. Both in many ways, symbolise this borough’s failure to grasp the opportunities before it”
More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
To summarise: Westfield and West Croydon. Both in many ways, symbolise this borough’s failure to grasp the opportunities before it – despite being one of the largest boroughs in London, itself one of Europe’s leading cities.
Residents in Shirley South tell me they do not feel safe in the town centre. They acknowledge the efforts of the police but say that crime and anti-social behaviour often appear to go unchecked, while issues like littering have become normalised. As a result, some are sadly choosing to shop in nearby Bromley, or even travel as far as Bluewater Shopping Centre, rather than support our own high street.
As a Council, we need to refocus on the basics. No more ill-conceived schemes. No more over-engineered, underused cycle lanes or poorly thought-out road closures. No more speculative developments that fail to deliver for residents. And no more wasting money chasing trends or relying on expensive consultants.
We must get the fundamentals right – and, above all, be honest with residents about our financial position. In my role as Shirley South’s councillor, I will champion a practical, common-sense approach to transport and planning policy, and tackling anti-social behaviour, to help get our borough back on track, for ALL the residents of this ward.
“I grew up in Croydon, attending both primary and secondary school in the borough”
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with our very own Michael Swadling, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park.
“Years of failure and political meddling by the council have squandered much of that legacy, leaving taxpayers with mounting debt while hollowing out vital services”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
Born in Mayday Hospital, I’m a lifelong Croydonian with deep roots in our community. For over 20 years, I have served as a school governor at schools across the borough. I ran the Vote Leave campaign in Croydon and have stood for office before.
I had hoped to leave party politics behind, but I’ve decided to run because I remember growing up in an area full of prosperity and opportunity – with excellent shopping, strong road networks, and a vibrant nightlife. Years of failure and political meddling by the council have squandered much of that legacy, leaving taxpayers with mounting debt while hollowing out vital services.
I want to help deliver a council that gets the basics right and empowers the people of Croydon to build the local businesses, jobs, and services we all desire.
“Too often, however, Croydon Council gets in the way – making it harder for people to get around, worsening parking, and failing to deliver the basic services”
You’re the prospective candidate for Norbury Park ward, what are the major concerns in the area?
Many of the issues residents raise – crime, antisocial behaviour, littering, and fly-tipping – stem from the same underlying problem: a lack of pride and belief in our area.
There are already many excellent local initiatives in Norbury and beyond that support our community, and these should be actively encouraged and backed.
Too often, however, Croydon Council gets in the way – making it harder for people to get around, worsening parking, and failing to deliver the basic services residents need. Tackling these issues will be my will focus for Norbury Park.
“The borough is effectively bankrupt, and there is no easy fix. Labour drove it into de facto bankruptcy, and the Conservatives have failed to resolve the deep-rooted problems”
More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
I have been closely tracking Croydon Council’s problems for over a decade. I was also actively involved in the successful DEMOC campaign that delivered a directly elected Mayor and greater accountability to the borough.
You can read some of my analysis on the waste and mismanagement at the council in my article for the TaxPayers’ Alliance: ‘Consequences for Croydon’
The borough is effectively bankrupt, and there is no easy fix. Labour drove it into de facto bankruptcy, and the Conservatives have failed to resolve the deep-rooted problems. Taxpayers and frontline services have paid the price, while the council continues to waste money on flag-raising ceremonies at every opportunity, with little reduction in senior executive roles, hidden payments, and self-promotion through Your Croydon. It raids whatever funding pot it can, yet residents and essential services continue to suffer.
We need real accountability for the financial mess and a fundamental shift in priorities – from “nice-to-have” vanity projects to “need-to-have” basics. The sums involved may not always be enormous, but we must have a council leadership that leads by example and lives within its means.
Beyond wasteful spending, council interference has allowed our town centre to fall into decline. We need fewer grand schemes and more freedom for small businesses to thrive – delivering better shopping, an appealing environment to locate offices, and a vibrant night-time economy. Where the council should get involved is by working closely with the police and local businesses to make the areas around East and West Croydon stations safe, clean, and welcoming once again.
Beyond the town centre, we have successful local high streets that deserve far greater support. If elected, I will champion Norbury, Upper Norwood, and all our district centres, helping them become thriving, independent destinations shaped by local businesses and the community.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
“We need fewer grand schemes and more freedom for small businesses to thrive – delivering better shopping, an appealing environment to locate offices, and a vibrant night-time economy”
Michael Swadling is running for Reform UK with Maria Evans in Norbury Park.
With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Maria Evans, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park.
“It is my absolute resolve and intentional delight to be of serve in Norbury Park ward”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi there! Maria Evans is my name and Norbury Park is my ward – and I am truly excited to have the privilege of service in Norbury Park!
Please let me introduce myself here under to you –
My working life spanned various office positions from starting my career as a shorthand typist in the South African Railways upon leaving school to company secretarial governance and share trust administration with the ability to build strong relations with all stakeholders. Combined I have approximately 26 years of experience in various business entities including auditing, asset management, corporate law, CIB banking, fast moving consumer goods, share trusts and various niche markets.
Was given British Citizenship upon marrying my Liverpool born husband in 1972. Immigrated to UK in 2017. After arriving in the UK it seemed prudent to ensure that I had acceptable British qualifications to offer, if needed, and received a level 3 hairdressing NVQ qualification from Croydon College.
Although South African born my heritage was and is predominantly British in family culture. My family love Britain and all my immediate family live in UK.
It is my absolute resolve and intentional delight to be of serve in Norbury Park ward.
What made you decide to run?
The reason is my desire to be of service due to my experience in Croydon since we arrived as a family from South Africa at the end of 2014. Very fortunately for us, we were able to be housed by a good family friend. Dealing with all the official authorities including Croydon Council was relatively easy as these officials were just literally a phone call away and/or a visit to their offices.
Everything seemed to run well including visits to doctors and referrals, if needed. The doctors were able to prescribe relevant medicines as they saw fit. The public transport was impressive and decently reliable. We were able to buy a shopping cart full of good quality vegetables, groceries including meat and dairy, toiletries and some luxury goodies as well for £20. One learnt that one can walk around towns, parks, and surrounding areas, public transport systems in relative safety, even for the young and old. The roads were well kept. People were very accommodating of one another. Even the English dogs are socialised. People were able to afford a visit to the coffee shop or have a meal. The high-streets were working well and no business premises stayed unoccupied for long. The pubs were amazing with pub breakfasts and meals being really affordable. Many older people seemed to come regularly for maybe one decent meal a day on a regular basis. The pubs were places where the less fortunate of society could go to for an outing, friendship and a bit of a meal. The pubs catered for the whole strata of society in a very British way of life. The minimum wage seemed to work good enough for the young and the rest of society. People were relaxed and certain of their way of life. They were at ease.
“Norbury Park suffers from some significant antisocial behaviour, including vandalism, drink and drug use, making visitors feel unsafe”
You’re the prospective candidate for Norbury Park ward, what are the major concerns in the area?
Looking at the park itself as a microcosm of the ward, Norbury Park suffers from some significant antisocial behaviour, including vandalism, drink and drug use, making visitors feel unsafe. We also have problems with litter, graffiti, and poor maintenance requiring regular intensive community cleaning efforts. Key problems include:
Antisocial Behaviour: Frequent complaints about drug dealing, drug use, and groups of people drinking in the park.
Vandalism: The park has experienced recurring vandalism. Including destroyed equipment, broken notice boards, and graffiti. The cricket pitch had been appalling vandalised.
Safety Concerns: Incidents of intimidation, violence, and sexual offences have been reported. Increased crime during dark hours is a significant concern.
Infrastructure Issues: Poor lighting in certain areas is a major concern. While a new, all-weather path was installed in 2025 to fix severe winter and mud flooding, the area still requires better facilities.
Homelessness & Unauthorised Use: Previous issues with encampments led to police intervention, and the area faces challenges with e-bike misuse and illegal parking, near the site.
“I would like to champion bringing resolutions to the problems of loneliness and misunderstanding”
More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?
We need a restoration of our City Centre with:
Improved infrastructure
Businesses helped to be established and maintained
Functioning GP surgeries and hospitals
More housing
Youth engagement
Employment
Education and understanding
Green belts maintained and policed
Crime in all its aspects stamped out
I would like to champion bringing resolutions to the problems of loneliness and misunderstanding.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
