As someone who has campaigned for years for more social and affordable housing, this week's announcement is a huge step in the right direction for the North East and for families across Northumberland. For the first time, regional Mayors outside of London  – including our own North East Labour Mayor Kim McGuinness  – will be given direct influence over how millions of pounds are spent on new social and affordable housing through the Government's £39 billion Social and Afforda

Week in, week out, I’m hearing from residents who are facing eviction through no fault of their own. Section 21 notices, landlords selling up, or sudden changes in circumstances all leaving decent people desperate for somewhere to live. But when they turn to the Homefinder system, it’s clear that something is fundamentally broken. There’s no real recognition of local connection no weight given to the fact that someone has lived in our villages all their lives, works locally a

I joined MPs David Smith and John Lamont along with fellow Councillors in raising serious concerns with the Rail Minister over cuts to LNER services at Berwick-upon-Tweed. This won’t just affect one town it will hit everyone who depends on the East Coast Main Line in the Borders and Northumberland. We need investment in our region, not cuts.

In recent days, a disturbing debate has emerged across social media – sparked by Reform figures attacking everyday adverts for being “full of black people, Asians or anyone who’s not white.” It’s a reminder that even in 2025, prejudice still finds a platform. But it’s also a moment for the rest of us to stand up and show who we really are – a fair, decent, and diverse country that refuses to be divided. Over the last few days, we’ve seen these voices grow louder attempting to

Supporting Organ Donation Week This week marks Organ Donation Week, a moment for all of us to reflect on the extraordinary gift of life that organ donation represents. Across the UK, thousands of people are waiting for a transplant—men, women, and children whose futures depend on the generosity of others. One donor can save or transform up to nine lives. Behind every statistic is a family hoping for a second chance for their loved one. By choosing to donate, we give that hope