I am delighted to have the opportunity to stand as the Labour candidate in Leigh and to represent my local community and residents across Southend, my home town.

Full statement

I have been a Labour member and supporter for many years and was privileged to be one of the Southend Labour Victoria ward councillors for six years from 2002. I was a member of the Development Control Committee – I know that appropriate planning decisions that protect the nature of the Leigh area, its history and culture, is a key issue for people living in Leigh.

In addition to my experience as a councillor, I sat as a Justice of the Peace in Southend for eleven years and volunteered as a school governor.

Last November I was elected by members to be the Trades Union Liaison Officer for Southend West Constituency Labour Party.

I have grown up children and young grandchildren living in the area; like most parents today I am concerned about future prospects for the younger generation and recognise the importance of introducing and delivering on policies that will provide an environment in which they can thrive with affordable, good quality housing and a decent education for everyone.