HASLEMERE residents will vote for the future make-up of their town council as well as South West Surrey in the General Election on June 8

The race to get elected promises to be just as lively.

A by-election was called after the shock resignation of three councillors in a public protest against political pressure from Tory “masters behind the scenes”, back in March.

Eight candidates from four different parties have thrown their hats into the ring, with five going head to head for the two vacant seats in Haslemere South and four competing for the single seat in Hindhead.

Haslemere South

Nikki Barton (Independent): “With experience as Haslemere’s first Independent county councillor, I have a proven track record in putting the town first. I moved here with my family a decade ago and have been a school governor and worked with the Fringe Festival; Haslemere Vision and chaired the Community Rail Partnership. I will prioritise community engagement with openness and transparency.”

Paul Croshaw (Labour): “I moved to Haslemere from Godalming around eight years ago and work as a clerical officer in Haslemere Hospital outpatients department. I love serving the public and ensuring everyone gets the best service possible no matter who they are and what background they come from. I care about our community and ensuring our next generations benefit. I will make sure the views of everyone are considered – not just a few.”

Ashleigh Deane (Tory): “I have lived in Haslemere for 15 years and want to be even more involved in my community. I work at a local secondary school and spend my spare time enjoying all the area has to offer. I volunteer for Wey Hill in Bloom and am now treasurer. I will support community events, and ensure young people are given a strong voice and help promote Haslemere as a great place to live and work.”

Simon Dear (Tory): “I have lived in Haslemere for 13 years. As a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, I have a background in law, planning, finance and building construction I am already working with local businesses and London property contacts to try and retain a Post Office in the town. I hope to bring my business and professional experience to bear in other areas as well for the benefit of the town.”

Maria Mateo (Independent): “I care about Haslemere. My family have lived here for over 10 years. I am actively involved in our wonderful community. As a solicitor I am now training as a Citizens’ Advice Bureau Waverley supervisor. and volunteer for First Responders, the Orchard Club, and Haslemere Rugby and Football Clubs. I will be open and transparent, listening to residents and representing their views.

Hindhead

Alex Ford (Tory): “I have lived in the area for over 20 years now and want to become a councillor to help give back to the community. I own a coffee shop and outside catering company in Beacon Hill and in my spare time enjoy running a number of marathons to raise money for charity and playing sports and teaching people to cook. I will work to promote the area and help to bring people back into the community and support local businesses.”

Susan Ryland (Independent): “I have lived in Beacon Hill, for over 20 years. In that time the tunnel has opened up new opportunities. To flourish, we need our local businesses to thrive, traffic and parking to be managed, housing to be genuinely affordable and new recreation facilities created for young people. As an expert in problem-solving and sustainability. I will seek solutions to protect our environment, while providing the services we need.”

Geoff Whitby (Lib Dem) “Having been a town councillor, it would be a privilege to represent the area again. I have lived in Beacon Hill for over 30 years and work in the NHS as an audiologist. As a keen cyclist and amateur astronomer, I will work to balance planned development with access to and protection of the outstanding countryside we are lucky to have. I want local links with Haslemere improved, allowing those using public transport to enjoy an evening out, or commuters to get home when returning home late from work.