I am proud to have been selected to be the Labour candidate for the Blackbrook By-Election. We were so sad when we lost Linda Maloney who served our community tirelessly for 30 years. She was a great friend to so many and knew just what it meant to serve for the community she called home. Linda was devoted to the people of Blackbrook and truly was the heart of the community bringing people together, supporting residents through three decades with tireless dedication to them. 

Among her achievements was campaigning for the Stanley Bank Way by-pass which alleviated the area of traffic congestion and fighting to secure a brand-new school at Ashurst Primary. She also served as the first female vice chair of the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority during her 12 years with the authority. They are big shoes to fill, but if elected, I will do all I can to make Linda proud and work alongside Anthony and Paul to represent the residents of Blackbrook and Haydock to the best of my ability.

I was born in St Helens, and although I moved away with my family when I was young, I came back in 2006, St Helens has always been my home. For the past 18 years, I’ve been working across the community helping charities, voluntary groups, and local initiatives with St Helens Voluntary and Community Action. From supporting food pantries to running the St Helens Community Lottery, my work has always been about championing local people and helping groups to make a difference.

I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing groups like Blackbrook Rugby Club, helping them secure funding and plan for the future. This has been so special for me as so many of my family did, and still do live here and it’s where my birth father Ian taught for many years, at St Augustine’s.

I’m also a trustee with the Saints Community Foundation and a strong believer that community action can make a huge difference. My work was recognised in 2022 when I received an MBE for my service to the community in St Helens. I want to bring my years of experience to the council chamber to benefit the local community. To ensure the benefits of the regeneration of the borough are felt by our community, especially young people get the opportunity to benefit from good schools and employment opportunities.

I’m a mum, a Saints season ticket holder, and I care about making our Borough the best it can be. If elected, I’ll bring my skills, experience, and dedication to serve the people of Blackbrook and stand up for what matters to us all.