It’s time again for us in Kippax, Methley, Allerton Bywater, Micklefield, Ledston, Ledsham and Ledston Luck choose who we want to represent us on the council.

Full statement

I’ve seen a bit in the past few weeks from other parties, so I wanted to put something out there to explain why I’m standing for re-election to represent my home.

Some of you might remember me from my time in The Moorgate. In fact, it’s one of the things I love the most about representing the village - keeping in touch with those familiar old faces who I used to serve from behind the bar.

Now I serve Kippax from the Leeds City Council chamber - it’s my full time job and one I’m absolutely committed to.

I’ve seen some of the promises banded about by unknown candidates from other parties, and whilst our area normally votes Labour, I know that this time might be incredibly close.

That’s why I’m appealing to everyone to take a step back and look at the choice in front of you. I know there’s a lot of unhappiness about national politics, and I know some people just want to give the Labour Party a bad day, but I work everyday for our community and have done for decades. I hold regular advice sessions, have done my best to protect our villages from massive Tory cuts and am incredibly committed to this community.

Or there’s another choice. We can vote for the same chaos that people have seen where unknown Reform candidates took power last year - promises to cut council tax ripped to shreds, constant internal bickering, their Councillors focused on things decided in Westminster rather than delivering for their community.

So if and when you go to vote on 7 May, remember these important bits:

• ⁠It’s not a national election, we’re electing a local councillor to represent our community on the council.
• ⁠I’ve spent forty years serving my community and will continue to do so if you want me to.
• You need to take photo ID to vote.
• ⁠Those who shout the loudest and make the most promises aren’t always the ones you’re best off believing.

Please support me on Thursday 7 May 🗳️