Voters in Bramley & Stanningley Ward will go to the polls on Thursday, 7 May 2026 for the Leeds City Council elections. One councillor will be elected.
Voters are reminded that photo ID is needed to vote at polling stations. More details here.
West Leeds Dispatch does not support any political party, but we do encourage all our readers to use their vote.
Candidates have been asked for a statement of up to 300 words and a head and shoulders photograph to help you decide who to vote for. Here are their responses far …
William Gallimore (Conservative)
Address in Leeds
Ian Howell (Social Democratic Party – SDP)
Address in Leeds
Annabell Kesby (Green)
Address in Leeds
I’m Annabell Kesby, also known as Paws, and I’m standing as your Green Party candidate for Bramley & Stanningley.
I’m a disabled, neurodivergent and trans person, and the founder of Pawsitive Action Leeds CIC, where I work to make assistance dog training and support accessible. Through that work, I see every day where systems are failing people, and how much better things could be if we designed our communities with everyone in mind.
Bramley and Stanningley deserves a councillor who listens, understands, and acts with compassion.
I believe in tackling the root causes of issues in our community, not just reacting to them. That means supporting people earlier, investing in mental health, improving access to services, and creating safe, inclusive spaces where people feel supported.
I care deeply about addressing domestic abuse and ensuring survivors are listened to and supported. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home, and that means working with local services to make sure help is accessible, responsive, and centred around those who need it.
When it comes to crime, particularly youth crime, we need to look beyond punishment and focus on prevention. Young people need opportunities, safe spaces, and support, not to be written off. By investing in youth services, community programmes, and inclusive environments, we can build safer neighbourhoods for everyone.
I’m also passionate about accessibility and inclusion. Disabled people want to work, contribute, and be part of their communities, but are too often held back by unnecessary barriers. Removing those barriers benefits us all.
If you want a future that is fairer, safer, greener, and more inclusive, I would be honoured to have your vote.
Daren Morrish (Reform UK)
Address in Leeds
Originally from North Devon, on leaving school I immediately joined the Regular Army as a Royal Engineer. After a lifetime mainly within the Armed Forces, I’m now ready to serve the community with equal commitment.
Why?
I’ve witnessed our community suffer economic and social decline because of poor decisions implemented without transparency and without listening to the people who actually live here. Over the years people have started to lose faith, with residents feeling that no one is listening and no longer fighting their corner. Neighbours say they feel ignored and let down.
That’s why I’m standing.
I promise the following:
- I’m committed to being a councillor who GRAFTS for the PEOPLE.
- A genuine councillor with integrity, values and impartiality.
- Commitment, accountability and availability all year round whatever the weather – not just at election time.
- Always going the extra-mile when required.
- Not wasting our taxes on anything that doesn’t deliver value. Every £££ spent needs to make a positive difference.
- I will work constructively with everyone, regardless of their political allegiance.
- To always put local people first.
My three initial priorities:
- A Safer Community – No one should feel nervous walking home at night or allowing their kids to play outside. Implement real action against anti-social behaviour and crime.
- Safer Roads – Cracking down on dangerous E-Bike riding and repairing our roads (properly).
- Reviving Community events that bring people together which build cohesion and belonging.
I’ll plant trees and pick up litter if that’s what’s required.
I’ll give you leadership that restores standards, pride, and accountability. If I falter you can sack me.
Let’s make it happen.
Daren Morrish, Reform UK – Bramley & Stanningley.
Kevin Ritchie (Labour)
19 Moorland View, Bramley, Leeds LS13 1PU
From Bramley – for Bramley, Stanningley & Rodley.
I have had the privilege of serving as one of your local ward councillors for the last 12 years. Having been brought up in Bramley – and still living here today – I know just how lucky we are to call this part of Leeds home.
Firstly, I want to say a sincere thank you. I’m truly grateful for the support and confidence you have shown in me throughout my time as your representative.
I am a full-time councillor. I work seven days a week to represent you. Whether it’s resolving one of the thousands of enquiries I deal with annually or fighting for our area’s fair share of investment, I am always in your corner. Alongside my colleagues, Tom Hinchcliffe and Adele Rae, I have focused on delivering the improvements you’ve asked for.
Recent successes include:
● Playground transformations: Investment into the play areas at Bramley Falls, Rodley Park, and Stanningley Park, ensuring our children have high-quality, safe places to play.
● Sporting facilities: The full resurfacing and relining of the Stanningley Park MUGA, providing a top-tier space for football, basketball, and community exercise.
● Friends of parks groups: Set up and working directly with Friends of Bramley Park to revitalise the Walled Garden, helped deliver community events with Friends of Stanningley Park.
● Safer, cleaner streets: We are fixing our roads, filling potholes, and taking a zero-tolerance approach to fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour. Secured funding for additional bins across the Ward.
I have never shied away from the difficult conversations necessary to ensure Bramley & Stanningley gets the investment it deserves.
As your Bramley & Stanningley Councillor team, we work hard for you all year round. I hope I can count on your support on Thursday, 7 May to continue the work we’ve started.
Rosemary Spencer (Liberal Democrats)
Address in Leeds.
- Candidates who have not yet submitted their profiles can still do so by e-mailing news@westleedsdispatch.com.
Bramley, please remember that the actual minority keep you poor is billionaires! When it comes to voting day, remember, Reform love billionaires (do you really want to associate yourself with a party that LIKES Donald Trump?!?). Reform will not serve us in Bramley. They peddle a narrative to keep us divided but we’re better than that. Vote wisely Bramley.
What a stupid statement with absolutely no relevance to anybody in Bramley – let voters make up their minds based on what they believe is right for their community
BUT get out and vote!
Use your right to vote wisely. Remember this is a local election for your local area and Leeds. Use your vote and remove this incompetent labour council of Leeds. Only my personal view.