Green Party announces by-election candidate following death of Mid Suffolk Council deputy leader
The Green Party has announced its candidate for the Haughley, Old Newton, Stowupland and Wetherden ward by-election in Mid Suffolk. Agnes Watson will be contesting the seat for the Greens.
The by-election is taking place following the death of the former deputy leader of the council Rachel Eburne. Eburne was the first Green deputy leader of Mid Suffolk Council, and therefore the first person to hold that position on any council with a Green majority.
A long-standing NHS professional, Watson has served for over 35 years, including 23 years as a consultant anaesthetist at Broomfield Hospital. Now retiring from clinical work, she is looking to dedicate her time and energy to local politics.
“I would be honoured to continue the fantastic work Rachel did for our area,” Watson said, adding: “She was an incredibly inspirational Green councillor who cared deeply about the people she represented. I want to carry forward that same commitment and be a strong, accessible voice for residents.”
Watson says her priorities include supporting residents with health challenges, improving local infrastructure, protecting green spaces, and holding developers accountable to planning rules.
Mid Suffolk Green Party Councillor Janet Pearson, who worked closely with Eburne, expressed her support for Watson’s candidacy. She said: “Rachel was always available to help residents – whether it was arranging heating repairs, tackling fly-tipping, or supporting those struggling with council services. I know Agnes shares these values, and I have every confidence she’ll be an outstanding councillor.”
The by-election will take place on Thursday 12 June 2025.
Image credit: Jon Craig – Creative Commons
Rachel Eburne will be sadly missed amongst older greens in Suffolk. Her name often appears for activities many years ago. She will be a hard act to follow but I am sure that Agnes will give of her all. Her past record bodes well for the future.