PEOPLE in Tameside get the chance to decide who they want to represent them on the borough’s council as the area goes to the polls on Thursday, May 7.
Nationally, politics may seem more polarised with the rise of Reform UK on the right and the Green Party on the left.
Many are also billing the ward results as an indication of the country’s feelings about the current Labour government.
But locally, many of the issues remain the same. Will potholes be filled? Will the bins be emptied on time? How will councillors work for my area?
Ahead of this year’s local elections, The Correspondent has asked every candidate standing to supply profiles detailing how they area and their vision for their ward.
Here is the rundown of those standing in Droylsden West.
Sharon Barker (Reform UK)
BORN and raised in Droylsden and a proud mother of two boys, I know the area well and care deeply about its future.
I have also helped run a small business locally, so I understand the challenges facing local traders and the need to support and revive our neglected town centre.
As one of the more long standing advocates of Reform UK in Tameside, I am standing to be your representative for Droylsden West because you deserve someone who is visible, accountable and accessible all year round.
My priorities are tackling anti-social behaviour, opposing the local blight of HMOs, putting local people first in line for affordable housing and social housing, improving community safety, and dealing with the long-forgotten basics – potholes, fly tipping and litter.
I am also passionate about demanding greater accountability in healthcare, with a focus on transparency, early diagnosis and treatment.
I will be a tireless voice for the people of Droylsden West.
Rebecca Callaghan (Labour)
AS LABOUR’S candidate for Droylsden West, I am proud to stand for the community that has shaped my entire life.
I was educated at Droylsden High School for Girls, have worked locally at The Pig on the Wall and now serve as a registered nurse associate, caring mainly for elderly patients. Every day, I see the importance of dignity, compassion and strong public services.
I am raising my daughter here with her father, my partner of almost 20 years and like many local families, we want a safe, supportive and inclusive place to call home.
As a union representative, I stand firmly for fairness, equality and respect at work and in society.
I believe our community is strongest when we come together.
At a time when division feels all too common, I am committed to listening, representing everyone, and building a Droylsden West that works for all.
Ann Holland (Independent)
No profile submitted
Joe Johnson (Liberal Democrats)
AS A long-standing member of the Liberal Democrats and as a former Councillor for Droylsden West, I know that we are there to serve the community, not ourselves.
I would work to clean up our environment and improve our town.
Paul Molloy (Conservative Party)
ACROSS our communities in Tameside, I hear the same issues raised time and again about how the council has been run under Labour control.
People tell me they feel the basics are being overlooked. Roads are full of potholes, pavements are deteriorating and essential maintenance like street lighting and drainage is too often delayed.
Residents speak about growing frustration with litter, fly tipping and missed bin collections – issues that affect pride in our area and everyday quality of life.
There are also real concerns around anti-social behaviour and community safety, with many wanting to see stronger action and a visible response.
I understand these concerns because I have spent years working with local people across Tameside.
With family roots in Droylsden dating back to the 1940s, and having spent my early years on Sunnyside Road, this is an area I know and care deeply about.
On May 7, vote Paul Molloy.
Laura Rose (Green Party)
I AM standing for Droylsden West to give people a chance to vote for something different.
Having moved to the Droylsden area not long ago, I have seen both the growth and the let downs of the current council.
I want to give a voice for our green spaces, local community and those who want a new, fresh voice to speak for them in their area.
I used to vote Green as a voice against the current system.
I now stand with the Greens because I believe in their manifesto and mantra – hope not hate.