I was brought up in Dudley and have lived in the Borough most of my life. I went to St Edmunds, Russells Hall and the Dudley School, which is now called Castle High and then on to Essex University.

We live in Dudley now, shop in the town and use local services. When there is something wrong, we queue up at Russells Hall just like anybody else.

I served as a member of Dudley Council between 1991 and 1995. 

It was a huge privilege to be elected Member of Parliament for Dudley North in 2005. I think sending someone to Parliament is the greatest honour the British people can give to one of their fellow citizens. I take that responsibility very seriously and I work hard to repay the trust local people have placed in me.

You can keep up to date with my contributions in the Commons and questions to Ministers here.

Please email me if there is anything you would like to ask about the work I do, how I do my job or if there is something you think I should know about or you would like me to do on your behalf.