Wolverhampton-

With the Wolverhampton North East Labour Party shortlist date looming, it is perhaps time to state categorically what is driving me to even contest this nomination.

I have stated all along that I am a Labour Party loyalist. A person who joined the Labour Party here in Wednesfield in my 20's and who has played a role in all of Wolverhampton North East elections from that date through until today.

I am not a person who has 'had to come home' I have been here for all my political life. I have shared success and failure with our local Party.

During this period of more than 30 years I have played many roles and held many positions both in the Labour Party and in Local Government. It is this experience that has led to the endorsements that I have received from many eminant Labour MP's and former Ministers.

I have even been a Parliamentary Candidate and a General Election Agent in neighbouring constituencies. I have stood for Labour in local elections, and I have held high Office in Local Government.

It is this experience, this local knowledge, that I am placing before my friends, neighbours, and fellow Party members here in Wolverhampton North East.

I know that being a candidate in this particular General Election when it eventually comes, will be tough. But I believe that I have the 'tools' to do the job well! Its my belief that you have to know your constituents well, you have to understand the history of the area, and have a stake in their future to command success.

What is certain that unlike some of the other candidates that are contesting the nomination, and regardless of the outcome of a General Election result. What is for certain, is that I and my family will still be here, living out our lives in Wolverhampton long after this particular contest and the contestants have left to chase their goals elsewhere.

This is a City that holds much for my future, as it has provided for my past.