On Thursday, 1st May 2025, elections will take place for 98 Unitary Wiltshire Councillors and across the Parish and Town Councils in Wiltshire. We take a closer look at the candidates who will be vying for your votes in Calne.
Mike Sankey is standing as the Reform UK candidate for both Wiltshire Council and Calne Town Council in the upcoming local elections.
Mike, 60, grew up in Calne and went to school here before moving to Melksham in 1982 where he gained his experience in local government, serving on Melksham Without Parish Council and Melksham Town Council.
Mike told us: "I helped develop the Melksham neighbourhood plan and was chair of trustees for Melksham charities which includes the almshouses." He is currently a member of Wiltshire Council representing Melksham East.
Having moved back to Calne in 2020 with his wife Sue, and grandson Louie - for whom they are legal guardians, Mike says he feels he would, if elected, focus on representing his home town on both Town and Wiltshire Council.
"I believe in common sense local politics, and working with others across party lines to deliver the best value to local residents and to truly represent their views and act on their concerns."
Mike's priorities for Calne include:
Opposing inappropriate housing development
Fighting for additional infrastructure to support the existing and future population.
Making local government more accessible, accountable, and value for money
Meeting the needs of the entire population, including youth, working families, and older people
Mike told us, "There will be many long-serving community stalwarts standing for re-election, and all have something to offer. I believe, however, that I have a unique combination of experience in local government, knowledge of Calne's history and development over the years, and the ability to serve as a fresh pair of eyes from the town's perspective."
In his own words, Mike wishes his opponent, Cllr Tom Rounds a speedy recovery and good luck in the election. "Shortly after announcing my intention to stand, I was saddened to hear of Tom's medical incident and accident. I wish Tom a speedy recover, and also wish him well for his campaign to seek re-election against myself and others who might stand against him."
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