The candidates have been approached for statements. Here’s what they had to say.
The polls will open on Thursday May 2. For information about postal voting, Voter ID, and the location of the polling stations, log on to the council’s website.
29. Cyril Gambrell, Green – Pound Hill South & Worth
I am 78. Half of all of the CO2 emitted since the start of the Industrial Revolution has been emitted in my lifetime – 40% of it in just the last 30 years. I have seen the loss of habitats I have campaigned against vivisection, the slaughter of seals and whales, the fur trade, nuclear weapons and the arms trade. When I was a pupil at Hazelwick School there was one kid in my year with asthma. Teachers tell me now that it is at least one pupil in every class. That can’t be anything else other than pollution. Green issues are desperately important. That is why I am standing as a Green candidate in the local elections. Photo: submitted
30. Tony Patel - Labour - Pound Hill South & Worth
I have lived in Crawley for over 40 years and have a wonderful family of 2 beautiful girls and a son who now lives in Japan. Since I arrived in Crawley my vision was to settle down and retire in the town that has given me the most. During this period I have operated several businesses in the area, most of them had direct contact with the local residents. I understand the pressing needs of residents. As I am very passionate about the community and the Town I will work very hard to promote positive change needed to improve the community. In my final 5 working years I have worked in Local Government and understand the operations of the local council and this will speed up any changes required for the community. I am looking forward to serving the community of Crawley.Also standing in Pound Hill South & Worth: Ruth Jane Gaunt (Trade Unionist & Socialist Coalition) Photo: submitted
31. Robin David Fitton (Green Party) - Southgate
Robin’s no stranger to graft. He’s been in Crawley since day dot, raising his kids in Southgate schools and starting his career at Glaxo Smithkline on Manor Royal. Now he’s keeping things moving in travel and transport. Southgate needs someone who understands the real issues – local services creaking at the seams and the state of the roads that makes you cry. Robin knows what it takes to look after a local area, for our kids and grandkids. Southgate’s environment, roads and safety are important. Robin will fight for clean, safe streets and green spaces, not just talk about it down the pub. On May local election day, don’t settle for more of the same. Southgate needs someone who’ll roll up their sleeves and get things done. Photo: submitted
32. Dipesh Jitendra Patel - Labour & Cooperative Party - Southgate
I will strongly support improvements in Goffs Park as one of Crawley’s best green spaces. I will use my business experience to ensure that Crawley manages its finances well despite the Tory budget cuts. As a long term resident of Crawley I wish to do more for our community. If elected I will be a strong advocate for Southgate including dealing with anti-social behaviour and keeping the neighbourhood well maintained. Photo: submitted