It’s been great speaking to people from across the area over the last few years, finding out what issues are important to you and what you want from a local representative.

Full statement

Through my regular door knocking and newsletters I have shown that year-round hard work really can make a difference. Whether it is tackling fly tipping, ensuring the council deal with empty properties or reporting faulty street lights, I hope you agree that my work has already made a difference. However, there are bigger issues in our area and having spoken to many of you, it has been made clear to me that things must change. Many of you have told me that you never hear from your current Labour Party councillors and you feel that Bradford’s Labour-run council doesn’t listen to your views when it makes decisions about your area. Ask yourself, when was the last time they sent you an update on what they do for the area? This area has elected Labour representatives for many years and they have taken your vote for granted. The Tong Ward - which covers Holme Wood, Bierley, Tong Village and parts of Tyersal and Oakenshaw - desparately needs someone to stand up for the people that live here. That is my promise to you. My top priority is, and has always been, to work hard to improve our part of Bradford - and I haven’t even been elected yet! The choice at this election is clear. Another Labour councillor you never hear from, or more year-round commitment from an independently-minded, proven campaigner. Please use your vote to elect me to represent Tong Ward on Bradford Council on May 2nd.