I was elected to represent the Bridges ward in 2006.

My family came to Gateshead over 30 years ago and I feel this is very much my home. My daughter attended Kingsmeadow School. I have two grandchildren and my grandson attends Dryden School. I have been a member of the Labour Party for over twenty years and am a member of the T&G Union (now Unite).

I have been a Cabinet Member since 2009 and currently hold the Portfolio for Housing. I also support Children and Young People and the Inner West Forum as well as being a Director of the North East Apprenticeship Company.

I am a member of various outside bodies including the Trinity Community Association Management Committee and the King James Hospital Trust. I am a School Governor for Eslington School and Bede Community School.