I’m Zoë Metcalfe and I am delighted to be the Conservative Party Candidate for the North Yorkshire Police Fire and Crime Commissioner Election.

Full statement

Policing needs to be under great scrutiny, especially after recent tragic events involving women’s safety. Despite the huge challenges the Commissioner faces, I want to improve trust in policing, while supporting the fantastic work of the police and fire service.

As a councillor for Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council, I am experienced in representing residents’ concerns and interests. I pride myself on achieving positive results by working together with a wide array of people and organisations. I also work as a project manager for a property business. The skills and experience I have gained from local government and business will stand me in good stead for this important position I am contesting.

My priorities for the Police and Fire Service are:

• Urgent action on women and girl’s safety in our community – hold our services to account and implement resources and initiatives to make our society here in North Yorkshire and York a safer place.

• Tackle anti-social behaviour, burglary, rural crime, pet theft and road safety.

• Relentless disruption of serious and organised crime – drugs and county lines, serious violence, child sexual exploitation and abuse.

• Support victims and safeguard the vulnerable.

• Maximise resources and funding by blue light collaboration to deliver better value for money for taxpayers.

Although there has been significant progress and improvement within both the Police and Fire and Rescue Service, there is still much to deliver. For a strong and effective Police and Fire Crime Commissioner who will get things done, vote for Zoë Metcalfe.