About Me

Politics is about people. Empowering people and advocating on their behalf has been at the heart of what I have done my whole life, first in communities all across our city and then in the council chamber representing the people of Sinfin ward in Derby South.

Born in Arboretum and raised in Normanton, I understand our neighbourhoods and their people, having served on numerous charitable and voluntary groups in Derby for over 30 years. From these early days in the heart of the constituency my parents instilled in me lessons about helping others and the importance of equality of opportunity. 

Much of my community work and political activism was a result of my father’s influence. He came to the UK in the 1950s and worked in a foundry here in Derby. He prided himself on helping fellow immigrants settle into their new homes alongside work in our local community. Sadly, Dad passed away suddenly just before I was 21 and it was his untimely passing which inspired me to follow in his footsteps.

It's the values that he taught me which I have tried to pass on to my own children who were also born and brought up in Derby. They are both off to university to study medical courses and hope one day to work for our NHS, just like their mum does. My wife Suki and I are very proud of the adults they have become and are delighted that they too want to put something back into their community. 

Alongside my community and political activism, I have been a trade unionist working in the manufacturing and civil aerospace sectors for over three decades. I currently work at Rolls Royce, undoubtedly a Derby institution, and so understand what investment in good quality jobs in our city and region means to local people and the opportunities that arise when people are given a chance – like the chances I had as the son of an immigrant. I want others to be afforded those opportunities and would work tirelessly to make that a reality for people in Derby South and beyond.

I want to be part of the next Labour Government. A Government that will provide security for working people, create safer neighbourhoods and properly fund our NHS. A Government that will make our country the best it can be. We have a real opportunity at the next general election to take down this scandalous Tory Government and create a better society; built on Labour, trade union and Co-operative principles; one that is fairer for all. 

We’ve had a trusted advocate in Margaret Beckett for almost 40 years, she named me as the best person to be Derby South’s next trusted Member of Parliament and take the fight on behalf of the people of Derby South to Westminster.  It's time for Labour to be in Government, bring respect back to our country, sort out our economy and look after every person.