Sian Astley, known for her appearances on DIY SOS and a mayoral candidate, is challenging what she describes as a dominant political party control in Greater Manchester. With Andy Burnham stepping down, the Reform UK candidate is striving to gain leadership in the upcoming mayoral election as voters prepare to cast their ballots on Thursday.
Astley is one of seven contenders vying for Burnham’s position in what is considered the largest by-election in UK history, with over two million eligible voters. Recent YouGov polling indicates that Labour’s Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester City Council, is poised to win, with Astley projected to secure the second-highest number of first preference votes. However, in the anticipated second round of voting, the Reform candidate is trailing further behind. Despite the odds, the competition remains active.
A familiar face on television screens, the 56-year-old Astley, who heads Reform UK’s council group in Manchester, has made a mark in the interior design industry. Apart from her appearances on DIY SOS and Your Home Made Perfect, she engaged in a property-related debate with Sarah Beeny on a Channel 4 show years ago.
Astley, who studied law at the University of Manchester, pivoted to the property sector due to financial constraints post-graduation. Her journey led her to establish her own property firm, Moregeous, after receiving support from the Prince’s Trust. While her political experience is recent, having become a councillor in May, Astley has not shied away from controversial statements, particularly relating to immigration and housing policies.
Included in her manifesto are commitments to prevent illegal migrants from settling in local areas, enhance law enforcement in the region, and address issues faced by drivers. In an interview with the Telegraph, Astley likened her approach to running Greater Manchester to a home renovation project, emphasizing the need for thorough assessment and strategic planning for optimal outcomes.
