Meet the Cleadon Park ward candidates for South Tyneside's local council elections

Each one will be given the opportunity to tell readers why they are standing and why people should vote for them.

Here's what the three Cleadon Park ward candidates have to say:

ANGELA CURTIS (GREEN PARTY)

Having lived in South Shields almost all of my life, I have seen many changes in the town over the years, sometimes for the better and sometimes not.

As an opponent of austerity and an advocate in investing in our future, I’d like to see more investment to rejuvenate our town.

We need more good-quality jobs, better public services that work for us all, and a cleaner, healthier environment.

If elected on May 3, I would put all my efforts into trying to make South Shields a greener, cleaner and more prosperous place for us all.

JIM FOREMAN (LABOUR PARTY)

I’ve been a councillor for Cleadon Park and Harton Moor since 1999.

As part of the Labour team representing the ward, I believe that all local residents should be treated with honesty and integrity.

We have achieved many good things, such as the £95million regeneration of the Cleadon Park estate, alongside numerous other projects.

I have previously served as a cabinet member as well as being a member of various committees, ranging from scrutiny to human resources and corporate parenting.

I’m also a member of South Tyneside Homes Board.

Recently, I became a trustee for Brinkburn C.I.O. (charitable independent organisation).

SAM PRIOR (CONSERVATIVE PARTY)

I’m delighted to be standing in Cleadon Park an area I know and love, having lived here for a number of years.

As your councillor I would bring fresh ways of thinking and new ideas.

For example, we want to see South Tyneside involved in a devolution deal which would increase investment in the area and allow us to make strategic decisions locally.

Build a vibrant local economy: I would campaign for reductions in business rates and parking charges to help regenerate our town.

An opposition voice to Labour: I will provide the scrutiny and accountability our council so desperately needs.