Labour sets out Newton-le-Willows East team as new chapter begins
St Helens Labour has announced its candidates for Newton-le-Willows East ahead of the local elections on 7 May 2026, with Cllr Keith Laird seeking re-election alongside new candidates Lisa Preston and Ian Mills.
The selection marks a new chapter for the ward, combining experience with fresh voices as Labour continues its campaign to stand candidates in every seat across the borough.
Cllr Laird will stand again after representing residents in Newton-le-Willows East, while Lisa Preston and Ian Mills join the team bringing strong local connections and a shared commitment to the community.
Council Leader Anthony Burns welcomed the candidates and paid tribute to two longstanding councillors who are standing down.
Anthony Burns said:
“Keith has been a dedicated councillor for Newton-le-Willows East and continues to work hard for residents. I’m delighted that Lisa and Ian are joining the team — they both care deeply about their community and are ready to step forward and make a difference.
“I also want to place on record our thanks to Councillors Jeanie Bell and Seve Gomez-Aspron MBE for their years of service. They have been passionate advocates for Newton-le-Willows and their contribution to the community will be long remembered.”
The candidates were confirmed following Labour’s borough-wide campaign launch attended by members, councillors, MPs and regional leaders, marking the start of campaigning ahead of May’s all-out elections.
Cllr Seve Gomez-Aspron said:
“It has been a great honour to represent my hometown for the last 14 years, which is the majority of my adult life! I have fought for Newton in St Helens town hall and I have put NLW back on the map to get our share from St Helens Council. Receiving an MBE and QAVS was a highlight so I could champion NLW to the King! Thank you all. I have done what I promised to do: talk straight, fight hard for Newton-le-Willows and give you my honest view on the reality of a situation. I will not be bullied or intimidated by others. Earlestown Town Hall will reopen, Parkside will happen with manufacturing for future generations with a new Link Road, our train stations will be fully accessible, and our parks have been improved. I’ll enjoy focusing on family & community work!”
Cllr Jeanie Bell said:
“Serving as a local Councillor for 12 years has been one of the greatest honours of my life and it has been a privilege to represent our community, to stand up for people and to work with volunteer and community groups. We have fought hard for Newton-le-Willows in St Helens Town Hall and have been very successful in doing this. It is not an easy job and should never be underestimated. I look forward to still working some of the fantastic volunteer groups that I have met over the years and will no doubt see many of you around town! Thank you for your support”
Cllr Keith Laird said:
“It’s a privilege to represent Newton-le-Willows East having been born here and lived in the town all my life. I’m proud of the work we’ve done. Given a renewed mandate, I’m looking forward to continuing to serve the residents and building on that progress.”
Lisa Preston said:
“I’m proud to be standing in Newton-le-Willows East. It’s a fantastic community and I’m looking forward to working hard for residents and helping shape a positive future for the area.”
Ian Mills said:
“I care deeply about our community and want to make a real difference. I’m excited to be part of a strong team committed to delivering for Newton-le-Willows East.”
St Helens Labour says further candidate announcements will follow as the campaign continues across the borough ahead of May’s elections.
