I was born and raised in the Consett area attending local primary and secondary schools, undertaking a Mathematics and Statistics degree at Newcastle University and PhD at Edinburgh University before returning to Consett. Since leaving university, about 20 years ago, I took on a role as an analyst for the civil service working in a range of different roles generally focused on education. The development of a neighbourhood plan will give power back to the community to develop a shared vision for our neighbourhood and help shape the local development and growth to reflect our needs. This is an important platform that we have been missing so I am keen to help shape this plan to reflect the needs of the local community.