The Conservatives have selected their candidate for Sedgefield ready for the 12th December Election.
Paul Howell, a retired accountant, was approved as the Conservative candidate for the Sedgefield Constituency in the December General Election.
Paul will be looking to become the first Conservative MP to be elected in the area since 1931.
The Conservatives are aiming to make progress in a leave-voting constituency, which has become considerably more marginal since Tony Blair stood down in 2007. With a campaign focusing on delivering Brexit nationally and fighting locally for better transport links and support for business.
“I am proud and delighted to have been selected as the candidate for the area I have lived in all my life” said Paul. “This is a real opportunity for the people of Sedgefield to elect someone who will respect their wishes and champion them in Westminster. I hope they will place their trust in me”.
Paul was elected to Durham County Council for Aycliffe North & Middridge in 2017 and this year was also elected as a Councillor for Hummersknott ward in Darlington. In these roles he stresses just how much he has experienced what a strong local voice can do, especially when cooperating with others.
This is, he said, why he is keen “to work closely with Mayor Ben Houchen to help business and industry in Sedgefield, as well as seize the opportunities that are opening up through developments in the Tees Valley such as the airport and the potential Freeport.  If we can seize the moment, our area will thrive, and I am determined to play my part in this”.
On Paul’s selection, Cllr Pauline Culley, the chairman of South Durham Conservatives said, “I am thrilled that Paul has been selected. He is a first rate, hard-working, local candidate who will be an excellent representative for the people of Sedgefield and will actually listen to what the people are saying then act on it. We look forward to seeing him win in December”.
Paul has always been a strong advocate of local business and prides himself on being involved with local issues concerning businesses and community organisations.
Paul regularly attends residents meetings in the area and can often be seen at fundraising events supporting the local community.
Mr Howell is committed to supporting the Sedgefield Constituents and is sure he can make a difference once in Parliament.