Hebburn North Labour councillor set to lose her seat

Councillor Mary Butler, the Labour representative for Hebburn North, will not be standing as a Labour candidate in May’s election.

A Labour source said: “A meeting was held at the Caledonian in Hebburn on Monday, where each of the candidates, including Councillor Butler, delivered a five-minute speech.

“Members decided that they would not be putting Mary forward for a second term. That’s how democracy works.”

It is understood the Labour candidate for the ward will be Liz McHugh.

Coun Butler, who was elected in 2012 and is also lead member for adult social care and support services, was unavailable or comment.

Meanwhile this Friday’s ward surgery for the Hebburn North councillors has been cancelled.

Residents can contact Coun Richard Porthouse on 422 0372, Coun Adam Ellison on 428 4882 or Coun Butler on 483 7480.