James Hedges has today [14 May] been selected to stand as Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for Rayleigh and Wickford.

James is an active trade unionist and campaigner and has centred his values and principles to advocate for a better society.

He has experience across his career of working hard for people and communities facing adversity. He has campaigned for better housing, social justice, access to further education and opportunities for all because we can all see how the actions of reckless Tory Prime Ministers have plunged Britain into economic freefall with communities like Rayleigh and Wickford paying the price.

Like many in Rayleigh and Wickford, James is keen to champion and support those suffering from the housing crisis, long NHS waiting lists and the explosive rise in the cost-of-living.

A Labour government will bring a decade of national renewal that will transform the lives of the people in Rayleigh and Wickford.

James is keen to encourage social mobility and help working-class families to seize opportunities to improve their own future.

Speaking after their selection, James Hedges said:

“I’m thrilled to be chosen to stand for Labour in Rayleigh and Wickford. I have lived in the area for 10 years.

“I also, however, see the challenges faced by the local community after 14 years of a disastrous Tory government which has done little to truly level up places like Rayleigh and Wickford.

“I think it is important that the people of Rayleigh and Wickford have an opportunity to vote for a Labour candidate and to support the policies that will transform the local area and Britain.

“Only a Labour government can deliver the change that Rayleigh and Wickford needs: getting the NHS back on its feet and taking back our streets to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

“I will give voice to the hard-working people of this community and fight to make sure that jobs and opportunities are brought back to Rayleigh and Wickford.”