THE grandson of Ann Cryer, Labour's most successful MP in the Keighley and Ilkley constituency, is vying to represent the constituency.

Patrick Kilduff, 26, raised in both Ilkley and Keighley, has been shortlisted as a prospective parliamentary candidate, Keighley Constituency Labour Party has announced.

Patrick, Head of Enterprise & Innovation for the Earth Initiative at the University of Edinburgh said: "I was raised to stand up, speak up and fight for what is right, with relentless energy and positivity that a belief in a better future inspires. As Labour’s candidate for Keighley & Ilkley, I will work tirelessly to put our shared values into action and deliver for everyone in our community."

Patrick began campaigning at 10 months old, held by his grandma, as she canvassed voters ahead of Labour’s 1997 landslide victory. She served as Labour MP for Keighley and Ilkley from 1997 to 2010.

He said: "I’m proud of her record as Labour’s most successful MP in the seat.

"My priorities are a Green New Deal for our constituency, standing up for public services and encouraging a vibrant, diverse economy that creates opportunity and prosperity.

"Our hospital is falling apart. The pillars of our community - education and healthcare workers - are underpaid and overworked. We’re being let down by a government made up of politicians more interested in securing their own positions than food, energy and employment security for ordinary people."

He said the climate, river pollution and the Keighley incinerator plan were high on his agenda.

As a teenager, he volunteered with the Interfaith Forum set up in the wake of the 2001 Bradford Riots.

Patrick added: "I will bring our community together and deliver a Green New Deal creating economic regeneration through education, entrepreneurship and innovation. We will only succeed by empowering our people and our businesses, supporting further devolution and encouraging increased investment.

"We need a local candidate with the vision, energy and determination to reach across our brilliantly diverse constituency and build that better future.

"This is my home, this is my community, and the opportunity to serve is all I ask."

Ann Cryer said: “As a local lad, I know Patrick has what it takes to win Keighley & Ilkley back. I know that he will be our constituency’s biggest advocate, and someone who will fight for those without a voice to make sure that their stories are heard across the country.”