Former Watford MP Claire Ward stands for East Midlands mayor

Although Friday (April 5) is the deadline for candidates to confirm they will be standing to become the first ever East Midlands mayor, former Labour MP Claire Ward was announced as the party’s candidate in August last year.

The role will be similar to that of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and Liverpool City Region mayor Steve Rotheram, and would involve access to up to £4 billion in funding to boost the area.

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We managed to beat the rain and knock on doors across Rushcliffe. Just like everywhere else in the East Midlands, we had a positive response from people who have had enough of the Tories. pic.twitter.com/GSee4JV8b2

— Claire Ward for East Midlands Mayor (@ClaireWard4EM) April 1, 2024

Ms Ward has lived in Nottinghamshire for over a decade since the end of her 1997-to-2010 term as Watford’s mayor. She currently serves as chair of Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundations Trust having held other roles in the community pharmacy sector since 2011.

On her campaign website, the former MP said: “This election is a once in a generation opportunity to bring pride back to our villages, town, and cities.

“If I’m elected on 2nd May, I will make this region the best place to live, work and learn.”

Claire Ward outside Watford General Hospital. (Image: Newsquest)