Conservative chief joins by-election and crime commissioner candidates on the doorstep in Hartlepool

Conservative Party chairman Amanda Milling joined Ms Mortimer and Steve Turner, the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner candidate for Cleveland on the campaign trail and spoke to residents about what changes they want to see.

Ms Milling said she is backing plans to secure more investment and bring in jobs across Hartlepool

She said: “It was great to be on the doorstep with our fantastic candidate Jill.

"Labour has let Hartlepool down for the past 57 years they’ve been in charge and it’s now time for change, which only Jill can bring about as the next Conservative MP working hard with the Government in Westminster on her plan for more jobs, apprenticeships and investment to regenerate Hartlepool.”

Thanking the chairman for her support, Jill said: “Local people have been really enthusiastic about the chance to secure the change Hartlepool needs after decades of missed opportunities by Labour MPs.

"Conservatives have made a start with Ben Houchen as mayor, getting Brexit done and starting more than 690 apprenticeships here in Hartlepool.

“Now we can go further, that’s why my plan for jobs, investment and regeneration is so important.”

Ms Milling previously visited Hartlepool last month. And last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a visit to the town when he said he believed the traditionally Labour stronghold would vote Conservative.

A total of 16 candidates have been confirmed in the by-election on May 6 brought about after Labour’s Mike Hill resigned as MP last month.

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