In Stockton-on-Tees we have a vision for our borough, developed alongside our communities. We want it to be a warm and friendly place where we welcome others. At the economic heart of Tees Valley we want everyone to grow and succeed, and we work together to reduce inequalities, removing barriers to opportunity.

As the first female leader of the council, I am incredibly proud of where we are but if we are to succeed in creating this vision, a vibrant future, a safe and healthy place we can all share, we need to work differently and that's a journey we are firmly on.