Yahoo News Grimsby Town vice-chairman bids to become Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire
Jason Stockwood, the vice-chairman of Grimsby Town Football Club, has been announced as Labour's candidate for the upcoming mayoral election in Greater Lincolnshire.
The tech entrepreneur is aiming to bring back a sense of "solidarity, community and hope" should he be victorious in the May polls for the newly-formed mayoral combined authority.
A Grimsby native, Mr Stockwood has enjoyed a prosperous career in the technology sector. He served as chair of the Mariners for three years before transitioning to the role of Vice Chair last May.
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This marks his first foray into elected office. Labour has taken the lead in declaring their candidate for the elections scheduled for May 1, 2025.
The new devolved authority will unite Lincolnshire County Council with North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire Councils for the first time.
The elected mayor will hold increased local decision-making powers akin to those of Greater Manchester's Andy Burnham or Claire Ward of the East Midlands.
"I am so honoured to be given this opportunity to stand as Labour's candidate and I am more determined than ever to fight this election," said Mr Stockwood.
Reflecting on his upbringing, he added: "I grew up in Grimsby, raised by my single mother on a council estate in the 1970s and 80s. We relied heavily on the support of the welfare state and the strong community around us.
"I owe much of my success to growing up in a time when state and community support was solid. This foundation allowed me to build a rewarding career as a technology entrepreneur.
"Despite my career's demands, I never lost sight of where I came from. In recent years, I have focused my time and resources on rebuilding institutions in my hometown. I want to bring back a sense of solidarity, community, and hope.
"My experience, network, and unique journey, from a council estate to global boardrooms, put me in a strong position to help Lincolnshire navigate the challenges our area faces and seize the many opportunities I believe we have."
The Conservative party reportedly has a shortlist of candidates that includes former MPs Karl McCartney, Matt Warman, and Ben Bradley.
No other parties have yet announced their selected candidate.
