Each one has been given the opportunity to tell readers why they’re running for a seat on the borough council and why people should vote for them.
Here’s what candidates standing in the Whiteleas ward have to say.
Julie Angell (Independent)
Approached for statement and picture.
1. Doreen Purvis (Labour Party)
Representing you on South Tyneside Council is a tremendous privilege. During my time as your councillor, I have always sought to work with residents to ensure any issues in your neighbourhood are highlighted and resolved. I will continue to campaign and raise issues of iimportance to you and to listen to any issues of concern and your ideas as to how we can improve your area. If re-elected, I will continue to work with partners and other agencies, like the police, to ensure Whiteleas, Holder House and Parkway areas receive the funding and support they need. I’ll continue to campaign for environmental improvements and to ensure anti-social behaviour is dealt with effectively, given it can cause so much distress for residents. I hope I can count on your support on May 6, so that together, we can improveyour local community. Photo: Doreen Purvis (Labour Party)
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I’m Blake Robson. I’m proud to put myself forward to serve the residents and local businesses in Whiteleas and South Tyneside. If elected, I would bring fresh ideas that would benefit our town and borough – an area that has suffered so much decline. Retail and local business is one of my priorities as well as working with residents and listening and addressing their concerns about our streets and safety. I would aim to work with other councillors for the benefit of us all and push for honesty and real transparency in decision making by elected members of our council. Protecting local services and bringing back a sense of pride to South Tyneside is very important to me. A focus on families and our ageing residents is paramount and I’d like to help those with mental health concerns that have affected so many due to Covid and the subsequent lockdowns. Photo: Blake Robson (Independent)
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When walking around Whiteleas, it’s often apparent the great community spirit that prevails. I want to build on this foundation by working closely with you to ensure they get the best deal possible. Cooperating with residents, wardens, neighbourhood watch schemes, and local police, we can clamp down on litter, fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour. My initiative hopes to introduce more planters, trees and relaxing child-friendly spaces, making Whiteleas a more colourful, wildlife-friendly and enjoyable place to live. Brighter surroundings attract new investment, businesses and opportunities for our residents. So if you wish to put the ‘P’ back in pride in our area, vote Conservative on May 6. Photo: Dawn Wildhirt (Conservative Party)
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As part of the Green Party for 20 years, I’m passionate about our town and want to justly represent residents and our environment. Working on South Tyneside Homes’ Scrutiny Panel, looking at housing services and monitoring performance has given me a solid understanding of issues faced by local residents. I’ve actively liaised with police, our MP and South Tyneside Council over helping to stop anti-social behaviour. I’m motivated, hardworking and know Greens will be a positive voice for you in the town hall. Greens came second in Whiteleas in 2019 and more people than ever are telling us they’ll be voting Green on May 6. Use your vote for a party that works hard all year round. Whiteleas deserves better. Photo: Rachael Milne (Green Party)