Dame Norma Redfearn endorses cabinet colleague as candidate for mayor
Dame Norma Redfearn has backed coun Karen Clark in her bid to become Labour's candidate for North Tyneside's mayoral race next year.
by Austen Shakespeare · ChronicleLiveNorth Tyneside mayor Dame Norma Redfearn has endorsed a cabinet colleague in the race to become Labour's candidate for next year's mayoral contest.
Dame Norma took to X, formally Twitter, last night to throw her political weight behind Longbenton and Benton councillor Karen Clark, as the process to find Labour's 2025 candidate continues. The incumbent mayor, who has been returned to the post three times since 2021 with increased majorities each time, announced earlier this year she would not seek a fourth term.
Dame Norma said: "The Labour Party has achieved so much in North Tyneside since I was first elected in 2013, but the progress we've made is at risk. A Conservative victory in the mayoral election next year would be a disaster for North Tyneside.
"We need to select the best candidate if we want to win. I've known Karen for many years, and she's served in my cabinet since 2021. Her passion for people is her greatest attribute, and her experience and leadership skills will ensure North Tyneside becomes an even better place to live, work, and visit.
"Being the elected mayor is a difficult job but I know that Karen is ready and up for the challenge of being the next elected mayor of North Tyneside."
In response, Coun Clark responded: "To have Norma's support to succeed her as elected mayor means so much to me. I will not let you down."
Coun Clark is the current cabinet member responsible for public health and wellbeing and serves as chief officer and company director of the Justice Prince Community Interest Company. Justice Prince is a social enterprise located in Longenton.
David Slater, who is also on the shortlist to be Labour's mayoral candidate, said: "I would entirely expect Norma to endorse someone she has worked closely with over the last three years. That is typical of her generosity and loyalty to her team.
"I have made a personal point of saying that it is a good idea for the next mayor to come from outside the council.
"I absolutely understand her endorsement of Karen. I have also said myself that Karen is an excellent candidate and whatever happens we will have an excellent candidate for North Tyneside."
Mr Slater, a Whitley Bay resident of 28 years, has prior experience as a senior civil servant, local government officer, and the chair and trustee of several charitable organisations.
Yesterday, the Tories unveiled their mayoral hopeful for 2025 as Coun Liam Bones, the leader of the North Tyneside Conservative Group.
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