Sussex & Surrey Soapbox
The 'Sussex & Surrey Soapbox' Podcast is a local roundtable plus special guests, exploring the issues that matter most. We tackle the topics that spark debate, challenge perspectives, and shape our communities — always with balance, openness, and respect.
Our panel brings together a diverse range of voices to unpack complex and sometimes emotive subjects, offering thoughtful discussion, differing viewpoints, and factual insight. While we don’t shy away from the tough conversations, we believe they’re best had with curiosity, good humour, and a focus on what truly matters.
Search 'Sussex & Surrey Soapbox' & join our Facebook group - a 'Village Hall' vibe with a community discussing topics from different perspectives and always with respect... keyboard warriors not welcome!
You can catch soundbites from the latest episode on local community radio (SUSY 103.4, Meridian FM) - a shorter, accessible version of the podcast.
The latest episode with the full conversation is available here and across all major platforms. We love to hear your thoughts and suggestions, come join us in our Facebook group, or leave a comment & subscribe via Spotify etc....
Thank you for your interest, Clive Hilton.
Sussex & Surrey Soapbox
Fireside chat: Henry Smith (Reform) & Stephen Pritchard (Labour)
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Fireside Chat: Henry Smith and Stephen Pritchard - Local Elections are back on!
People, Politics & Power
What really drives a politician to switch parties? Do local elections still matter to the communities they’re meant to serve? And who actually holds the power when it comes to decisions that affect your day-to-day life?
In this fascinating fireside chat, recorded a few hours before the Government abandons plans to delay 30 council elections, we bring together two voices from different sides of the political spectrum:
- Henry Smith – former Conservative MP for Crawley and ex-Leader of West Sussex County Council, who made headlines with his move to Reform UK.
- Stephen Pritchard – Labour candidate for Maidenbower, current councillor for Three Bridges, train driver of 20 years, and volunteer McKenzie Friend supporting people through the family court system.
Together, they unpack the realities behind local and national politics in a refreshingly open, grounded conversation. Henry reflects on his journey through frontline politics and the personal motivations behind his decision to leave the Conservatives, while Stephen demystifies how Unitary Authorities actually work—cutting through the jargon to explain what's changing when and who’s responsible for what.
We also tackle the bigger questions people are asking in Sussex & Surrey:
Do communities still have faith in local elections—and do they genuinely change anything? Why were the May local elections proposed to be postponed or cancelled? And what happens when youth centres close, healthcare struggles under pressure, and community spirit starts to fray?
Honest, thoughtful, and rooted in real lived experience, this episode goes beyond party lines to explore what leadership, accountability, and community really mean in 2026.
Featuring Henry Smith, Stephen Pritchard and the wider Roundtable; Jacq Inwood, Maureen Jones, Aga Es, Iqbal Khan and Georgie. Hosted by Clive Hilton. Our thanks to The Prince of Wales, Reigate for their hospitality.
Please click on 'Send a text' above & join our Facebook group to share your perspective and suggestions for future topics - Thank you for your interest! Clive.
