Our Candidates for the 2026 May Local Elections
All our candidates are endorsed by our MP, Jonathan Hinder, who says:
“The Labour government is providing extra money to Pendle through “Pride in Place” funding, to invest in community spaces and facilities.
For us to really see the benefit of extra money from national government, we need to elect councillors who will have the whole community at heart in the decisions they make.
I know that all our Labour candidates would ensure that local people’s views inform council decisions, and I hope that you will give them your support on Thursday 7 May.”
All candidates are promoted by the specified agents – all at Labour North West, Rutherford House, Floor 2, Suite 6B, Warrington Rd, Birchwood, WA3 6ZH
Phil Heyworth - Candidate for Waterside and Horsfield
I'm Philip Heyworth—a local business owner, school governor, Pendle Vision Board member and father of two boys. I'm standing for Labour because Waterside & Horsfield deserves serious leadership and real action, not noise or empty promises. I'll be visible, accessible, and accountable—listening to residents and getting things done. (Agent Ann Marie Wrigley)
David Johns - Candidate for Boulsworth and Foulridge
As a lifelong Pendle resident, I have a strong affection for this area and its people. I’m fully aware that Pendle has often been let down by its elected representatives at all levels, and I believe the time has come for us to make a concerted effort to bring our public services up to the level which we all deserve and I hope you will give me your support in the forthcoming election so that we can carry the vital work forward and benefit the entire community, not just the fortunate few. (Agent Ann Marie Wrigley)
Mark Porter - Candidate for Vivary Bridge
I was the president of Pendle CLP (now Pendle and Clitheroe CLP) from 2013-2017. I grew up in the Vivary Bridge ward in the family home where my father still lives. I started my working life at Rolls-Royce as an apprentice and continue to work there today, representing the workers on a daily basis not only in the workplace but at national level and across the political spectrum - continuing to try to secure jobs for the next generation. (Agent Ann Marie Wrigley)
Manzar Iqbal - Candidate for Whitefield and Walverden
I am a local man who will listen to and act on your issues! I was born and bred in Nelson, went to a local school and have been active in the Labour Party for over 30 years as an Elected Officer, Councillor and also Chair of Nelson Labour Branch. My motto is 'IF IT MATTERS TO YOU, IT MATTERS TO ME' and I will be your voice to make our communities Cleaner, Safer, and Proud. (Agent Robert Oliver)
Muhammad Huzaifa - Candidate for Bradley Ward
As your Labour candidate for Bradley Ward, my priority is simple: putting our community first. I am proud to live and work in Nelson, and I see the potential in our streets every day. However, I also see the neglect - fly-tipping in our backstreets and the lack of investment in our local services. On Thursday, 7th May, we have a choice: settle for more of the same, or choose a champion to fight for a cleaner, safer, and fairer Bradley. (Agent Robert Oliver)
Sheila Wicks - Candidate for Marsden and Southfield
I have been a longstanding member of the Labour Party and have stood for office both as a Borough and a Town councillor over many years. My interests have included two school governing roles in which I acted as Chair, membership of local charities and social groups and I have a keen interest in recycling. I am standing as a Labour and Co-operative candidate - I have been a member of the Co-operative Party for some years and am proud to represent both this and the Labour Party. I have lived in the Southfield area for almost forty years and know it well. (Agent Ann Marie Wrigley)
Sue Nike - Candidate for Barrowford and Pendleside
I have lived in Barrowford for many years, and love being close to our lovely Pendle countryside. I am involved with local groups: Friends of Barrowford Memorial Park, the environmental group Bloom, and as a volunteer at Clarion House in Roughlee. I am chair of governors at Bradley Nursey School, with a focus on excellence in early years education, and safeguarding. I am an active current member of Barrowford Parish Council, and have previously been a Borough Councillor in Pendle. (Agent Robert Oliver)
David Hunter and Euan Clouston - Candidates for West Craven
Euan, who is standing in the Barnoldswick ward, has lived in the area all his life, and works in electrical engineering. David, who is standing in the Earby and Coates ward, has been a resident for 22 years and works in Social Care. They have a real sense of the ups and downs of daily life in this part of the world, and feel compelled to do what they can to ease some of these challenges for other people in the community. (Agents Euan Clouston for David Hunter and David Hunter for Euan Clouston)