Born and raised in Wigan Borough against the backdrop of the miners strikes, poll tax riots, privatisation and Thatcherism I watched in the school playground as one of the last local Mills in town was down.

Full statement

I had a state education in a deprived area of town but was determined to do well at school and push past stereotypes of working class women.

After school and college I was keen to get into the workplace. Initially working in various roles before settling in community pharmacy where I saw first hand the benefits of the NHS and the social consequences of poor Tory government decisions.

On to a career in banking where I gained more perspective on the way government action can directly impact working people.

Privately I'm married with one child who is autistic with ADHD and is Selective Mute.

I am a school governor, run a huge community group and have been active in local politics for some time. I work closely with existing ward representatives to bring about positive change for Douglas. For example I have recently worked to help Bramble House secure lottery funding for a much needed food pantry on Worsley Hall estate.

The greatest lesson I've learned is that real change does not come easily. It requires making bold decisions to bring renewal and being a voice for everyone on our ward not just a few.