In towns across the North of England the story is sadly the same – high streets are struggling, pubs and post offices are closing, the jobs are going and young people are going with them.
Places that once powered the country have been neglected as traditional industries have declined.
But our towns and high streets can thrive again. They can be places to earn a decent wage, enough to buy an affordable home and live close to family so grandparents can see their grandchildren grow up. This is personal for me. My family and friends live this reality every day.
