Election Feed

Manx Radio 2026 election profile. Recently left Public Health IoM implementation role. Active in performing arts (theatre, directing). Interests: creative writing, reading, sci-fi. Quote: 'I care deeply about where the Isle of Man is heading. I believe the decisions we make now will define what life looks like for my generation and the ones that follow.'

Full career history: Specsavers optical assistant (2008-10, Douglas), BA Acting at Arts University Bournemouth (2010-13, 2:1), professional actor in Spain and Scotland (2013-15), HelloFresh customer care supervisor (2015-16, London), Laundrapp team lead (2016-17), Game Theory Research marketing manager (2017-19), OYO UK growth programme manager (2019-20, made redundant in restructure), Mindful Chef customer care manager (2020-21), Kensington Arts creative development coordinator (2021-23, Douglas), Squared Online digital marketing distinction (2018), IoM Government communications officer (2023-24), Public Health IoM implementation officer (2024-26). Career break from Feb 2026 to campaign full-time for Douglas Central.

Manx Radio 2026 election profile. Chair of the Manx Labour Party. Elected Douglas South in 2021. Top 3 priorities for 2026-2031: social and economic growth, education and healthcare, housing and accessibility. Quote: 'Douglas South is my home and serving this community since 2021 has been an honour.' Emphasises people-first approach. Has a Parson Russell Terrier named Fynlo.

Manx Radio 2026 election profile. Vehicle technician by trade, 10 years in performing/live music industry. 25-year IoM resident. Policy priorities: government reform, cost of living, housing, supporting local culture and tourism. Quote: 'Like many residents, I care deeply about keeping our Island a thriving place to live, work and build a future.' Pets: two gerbils (Toph and Radical Edward) and a dog (Ella). Hobbies: photography (artists, motorsport), gaming, gardening.

Simon Williams, owner of Manx Tattoo and Body Piercing for 25 years, announces candidacy for Rushen. Born in the parish, lives in Port Erin. Priorities: GP waiting times, housing (public sector and affordable, first-time buyers), immigration policy, protecting Manx culture and heritage.

Campaign launch video. Emphasises being a proud Manxman born in Rushen, 25 years running a Douglas business. Urges voter registration. Wants to take constituents' voices into the House of Keys. Has been visiting businesses in Rushen. Plans door-to-door campaigning to hear concerns, frustrations, and ideas. Signs off with 'Gob mie' (Manx Gaelic farewell).

Peter Shimmin announces candidacy for Douglas Central. Son of former MHK John Shimmin. Priorities: cost of living, supporting young people and families, rebuilding public trust.

Campaign website with priorities page. Three key areas: tackling cost of living, supporting young people and families, rebuilding public trust. Also references road conditions, GP waiting times, airport problems.

Detailed priorities: cost of living, young people & families, public trust. Promises better focus, stronger delivery, more accountability. Also flags roads, GP waits, airport, local services.

Mark Firth announces candidacy for Arbory, Castletown & Malew. Mechanic of 15 years, music industry background. Focuses on practical representation and supporting those facing hardship.

Manx Radio 'Two Minutes to Tell Us' video interview. Key areas: government reform, education, cost of living, housing & development, culture & tourism, energy reform & green living, travel & commuting. Wants to 'break the trends in currently elected officials'. Values practical problem solving, honesty, fairness. Strong on heritage/culture protection: 'if we don't protect them now, it could be near impossible to get them back.' Speaks Manx Gaelic. Urges voter registration.

Sarah Maltby MHK is the first candidate to officially announce for the 2026 general election. Standing for re-election in Douglas South with full backing of Manx Labour Party.

Interests: social care, social injustices, lifelong education, family-friendly policies, affordable housing, workers' rights. Political member for Enterprise and Education depts. Arts Council Chair.

Campaign website with blog posts documenting his journey. Born 1968, grew up in Rushen. Career: farm work, power station operator (Ramsey, Peel, Pulrose), then founded Manx Tattoo Ltd. Core promise: 'I will listen to you, and I will represent the people of Rushen to the very best of my ability.' Manifesto described as 'a document that will develop over the coming months' — full release expected August 2026. Values: patience, commitment, resilience, honesty, fairness.