I was brought up in Marton and now live in Saltburn with my wife Vicki. 

As an officer with the Steel Union Community I have been helping to lead the Save Our Steel Campaign. Having looked into the eyes of steelworkers on a daily basis and seen their fears, I know how vital it is that we try to keep steelmaking on Teesside.

We also need to attract new jobs from emerging green and digital industries, and we need to support local businesses and tourism by working to improve our local high streets, building a future we can be proud of. Our young people should be able to fulfil their potential and be encouraged to overcome any fear.

I believe in our community and believe that by cooperating and serving our community we can achieve and become part of something more meaningful than we can by acting alone. I believe that trust, honesty, integrity and open communication are vital to public office.