Momentum-backed councillor up for PCC role

Dr Lynnette Kelly, who is the current assistant to PCC David Jamieson, has vowed to fight police cuts and rebuild neighbourhood policing.

She is bidding to become Labour's candidate for the 2020 election to succeed Mr Jamieson, who is stepping down after what will be six years.

Ms Kelly is a councillor in Coventry and a former parliamentary candidate in Birmingham. She said: "I care passionately about the West Midlands. I was born here, I’ve raised my children here, and I want my family and yours to grow up in safety, and with confidence in the local police.

“I will make sure West Midlands Police work will all our communities to reduce crime and prevent reoffending.

"For that to happen, the police need strong leadership and the public need to have confidence in the police and the police and crime commissioner.

"I believe I am the person to deliver the strong leadership that is needed, informed by Labour values and co-operative principles.

“The cuts to policing in the West Midlands have gone too far. I will fight the cuts, and campaign to get fair funding for the West Midlands."

Joe Connor, chair of Coventry Momentum, said: “Lynnette is a hard working and dedicated person who cares so much for the community.

"I believe she would make a fantastic police and crime commissioner, someone that would get things done that mattered and work hard to change things for the better.”

The election for the PCC role will take place in May next year.

The position had been due to be scrapped under plans from Mayor Andy Street, but the scheme was voted down by West Midlands Combined Authority board members.

Other Labour candidates are expected to be named in the coming weeks.