Stoke is a proud town but over the last six years we have been badly let down by the Conservative-run Council and our previous independent Councillor. That’s why we need to elect Lee Polshaw as the Labour councillor to represent Stoke.

Recently it was announced that popular restaurant Baby Russets will close and Titanic Brewery is pulling out of The White Star, leaving the pub’s future in doubt. They both said difficulties in trading formed part of their decision​.

Labour has a strong track record of protecting local businesses, including Sangams and Stoke market. Labour Councillor Andy Platt has been a key part of the Stoke events group that has hosted the only free fireworks events in the city on New Year’s Eve in recent years.

Lee, on a recent shopping trip to Stoke market said:.

The market needs investment. The stallholders need the floor repairing, the windows sealing to the rain stop coming in, and the aisles refreshing. These are basic things that the council can do. Lots of people want to shop locally and I am really keen to encourage them to stay in Stoke town centre. It’s good for local businesses, for our neighbours and for the whole town.

The council must invest to keep traders in the town. It is not fair – we deserve our fair share.

It was the last Labour Council who kick-started the investment in Spode. It was the Labour Councillors who tried to save Stoke Police Station from closing, while the Conservatives cut 450 police officers. Lee said:

We want to see Stoke flourish and thrive. But it requires a Councillor who cares about the Town, our market, the local business and the people who live here. As our local Councillor, that is exactly what I will do!​

Find out more about Lee’s campaign here

Vote Lee, Vote Labour on 1 July.