The leader of North Lincolnshire Council has been chosen as the Conservative candidate for next May’s Greater Lincolnshire mayoral election.
Cllr Rob Waltham secured the nomination at an event held at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln on Saturday, defeating contenders including ex-MPs Karl McCartney and Ben Bradley.
The race was recently narrowed down to six contenders. However, just days before the event, Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones withdrew to focus on addressing funding and efficiency issues at Lincolnshire Police.
“An honour to be selected by Conservative members as their candidate for Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire,” Cllr Waltham posted online.
“The creation of a mayor for Lincolnshire is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our region, unlock better-paid jobs, improve transport links, and create brighter prospects for children and young people.
“It is an opportunity we cannot afford to waste, and I am ready to ensure Lincolnshire gets the leadership it deserves to maximise this moment.”
Conservative members from across the county took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to congratulate Cllr Waltham, including Gainsborough MP Sir Edward Leigh and Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill.
“Congratulations to Rob Waltham on being chosen as the Conservative candidate for Lincolnshire Mayor,” wrote Cllr Hill.
“He gave a strong performance in front of hundreds of local Conservatives to win the nomination.
“He’s Lincolnshire born and bred, and having worked with him for many years I know that he will champion our county with passion and the extensive experience which he has.”
Former Conservative MP Dame Andrea Jenkyns has been confirmed as the candidate for Reform UK in next year’s mayoral election, while Labour will be represented by Jason Stockwood, vice-chairman of Grimsby Town Football Club.
The devolution deal for Greater Lincolnshire was approved by central government in September after being delayed by July’s General Election.
The agreement promises an additional £24 million per year for the region, with an elected mayor serving as the direct link to Westminster.
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