General Election 2017: Cumbria's candidates tell us what's important to them and their voters

A wannabe MP who can literally juggle fire, a candidate who fronted an 80s pop band described as a fourth rate New Order and a candidate who'd love to be alive at the time of the Battle of Kursk.

Those bidding to become MPs in constituencies across Cumbria are a diverse bunch ... but serious when it comes to setting out why they deserve your vote on June 8.

Barrow and Furness

Rob O'Hara Name: Rob O’Hara
Party: Green Party
Age: 62
Born: Catford, London
Job: Self-employed (guest house and coffee house)
Family: Partner and two sons

When and why did you join your party? 2007. I joined because I have always been a supporter of Green Party policies and I wanted to get involved in local campaigns

Who is your political hero/heroine? I don’t really believe in heroes or heroines, but I think that Caroline Lucas is one of the best MPs in Parliament and I was a great admirer of Michael Foot

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? The archaic traditions of our current houses of parliament. I would abolish the house of Lords and change the nature of debates in the House of Commons

What’s the main issue facing the country? The desperate plight of people in need

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The lack of investment and the reliance on one main employer

Why should people vote for you? People should vote for me if they agree with the policies of the Green Party. I stand for justice, equality and a passionate concern for the environment.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I don’t eat much sugar.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Nelson Mandela.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Loads, but I am a Beatles nut, first and foremost.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now, because I don’t believe in fairy stories.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Tony Blair, so that I could make a citizen’s arrest.

What was the last book you read? Chasing the Dime by Michael Connolly.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Loud, musical, athletic.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Always be humble enough to apologise, when you have done wrong

What’s your favourite joke? I bought the world's worst thesaurus yesterday. Not only is it terrible, it's terrible.

Simon Fell Name: Simon Fell
Party: Conservative
Age: 36
Born: February 1981
Job: Director at a not-for-profit organisation that prevents fraud and financial crime
Family: Married to Pippa, with an 18 month-old daughter, Peg.

When and why did you join your party? Around 1999 - I had developed an interest in politics and wanted to become more involved.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Sir Tim Berners-Lee - he invented the web and gifted it to the world.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I’d make sure that the Government realises just how important Barrow and Furness is to the UK. We do remarkable things things here but I don’t believe that Government gives us a fair shake in terms of investment in our schools, hospital or vital infrastructure such as roads, rail and broadband. I want to make the case to Government for this to happen.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Brexit. The upcoming negotiations will define our relationship with Europe and place in the world. There’s barely an issue that won’t be touched by it - from how easily people can travel to France on holiday, to how our businesses can trade, and whether our economy is able to thrive.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Short term, it’s ensuring that the work in the Yard is secure and not put at risk. Longer term, it’s proving to Government that as an isolated area, we need increased investment in our public services and infrastructure. An industrial strategy for Cumbria will help make that case, and also to tackle vital issues such as affordable housing, long-term poverty, and homelessness.

Why should people vote for you? I’m passionate about Furness. All I want to do is be a good, local advocate for our area - fighting for it on the national stage and getting us the recognition we deserve. My entire career has been built on getting people with different views to work together for a common cause - I think that will serve me well if I’m elected. I’m also not a career politician - I’ve run my own business, chaired a charity, worked in telecoms and am now a director in a not-for-profit organisation. I have real world experience and am also a reasonably normal guy!

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I’m a karaoke nut.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Alan Bennett, Amy Sedaris, Nina Simone, Nigel Slater, Nick Cave, David Bowie.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? At the moment: Tom Waits/Jackson 5/Stone Roses/Andrew Bird/Witness (who are playing at Gathering in the Woods in June!) - I flit around a lot.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now. We live in exciting times.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Alan Bennett.

What was the last book you read? I’m working through the Jack Reacher stories - The Visitor was the last one I finished. Before then, it was American Gods by Neil Gaiman.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Passionate, curious, optimistic.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? From an old teacher - ‘There are those that do and there are those who carp from the sidelines. Don’t be the latter.’

What’s your favourite joke? I’m terrible at remembering jokes, but this one always sticks… Why did the baker have brown hands? Because he kneaded a poo… (awful, I know!).

Loraine Birchall Name: Loraine Birchall
Party: Liberal Democrats
Age: 49
Born: Edinburgh
Job: ICT/Management Consultant
Family: One son, Jake, at 6th Form

When and why did you join your party? When Jake was a baby, having met Tim Farron and being very impressed with his drive, commitment and integrity.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Emmeline Pankhurst

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I'd do all I could to get rid of homelessness and poverty. We're a first world country and these things shouldn't exist.

What’s the main issue facing the country? NHS and Education Cuts - both services are on their knees battling to cope and it's just not good enough. They need proper funding and for politicians to stop interfering. Teachers are professional people, they should be allowed to do their jobs in well equipped classrooms and with enough funding to ensure every child gets an equal chance in life. Free school meals should be available to ensure our kids get the nutrition they need to thrive.
The NHS is in a funding crisis and needs cash now. My Mum lost the sight in one eye waiting over six months for an emergency appointment which should have happened within one week. The hospitals are battling for beds, recruitment is an issue and they need proper funding. Lib Dems will ring-fence NHS funding so that it's guaranteed to go where it's needed.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Many of you will say Trident, but those jobs are secure as we are committed to the build programme. I'm worried about poverty, the impact of Tory welfare cuts, Universal Credit rolls out in Barrow next year and already 8/10 claimants are in rent arrears and have no cash. If their arrears go over £1000 they'll struggle to get another tenancy if evicted and could end up on the streets. It can take 6-12 weeks to get any money and the use of Food Banks is through the roof.
I'm hearing reports of scurvy and rickets, these are Victorian diseases which should have never returned. Young people are struggling to afford homes, we need to build much more social and affordable housing which give them the chance to get on the housing ladder but only 10 per cent of council homes sold have been replaced in over 30 years of Right to Buy.
Working families struggle to get by on low wages, life shouldn't be that hard. We need the living wage set at a sensible level so that benefits and food banks won't be needed by working families. Barrow deserves better than this.

Why should people vote for you? I'm hard working, I fight for the things I believe it and I don't back down. I'll be a strong voice to oppose Tory cuts and fight for our area.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I used to waterski and I have taken part inshore power boat racing.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, John Wayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, Alan Rickman, Emmeline Pankhurst, Katharine Hepburn, Susan Kramer, Eric Morecambe, Ian Hislop and Stephen Fry.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, The Pogues, The Beatles, Oasis, The Smiths, Simply Red, Take That, The Hollies and a range of classical music.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now, there are so many opportunities, emerging technologies and possibilities for all of us.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? It would have been the late Carrie Fisher. She was courageous, outspoken, an amazing campaigner for those with mental health issues and had a sharp sense of humour.

What was the last book you read? It's Just My Nature by Carol Tuttle

Describe yourself in 3 words: Driven, forthright, fair

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Be yourself

What’s your favourite joke? A man walks into a bar with a roll of tarmac under his arm and says: "Pint please, and one for the road

Alan Piper Name: Alan Piper
Party: UKIP
Age: 64
Born: Birkenhead 1953
Job: Publican, previously IT leading to Project Management Consultancy - 1975 to 2000
Family: Wife, step-son in Army, daughter at school

When and why did you join your party? Ex Tory who didn't recognise Cameron as any kind of Conservaitve that I recognised. Looked at UKIP in 2009 but didn't get involved until I met [Nigel] Farage in 2014. Most impressed that Kippers, here at least, have climbed out of the political trenches and are finding common ground - even with the biggest issues like NHS and benefits system.

Who is your political hero/heroine? "Uncle Norm" (Tebbit. Chingford skin-head - used to be a union leader before becoming a Tory politician)

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Parliament. The expenses scandal exposed by The Telegraph went a long way to showing how hypocritical a lot of MPs are. May still hasn't shut down Leveson. I also think Parliament is massively corrupted by career politicians using it as a stepping stone for their careers, Osborne and Uber for instance, which the Mail was targeting before the election was called.
But one simple change I would love to propose, based on my own career experience, is that all MPs should operate through individual VAT registered, limited companies. Their true cost to the electorate will be around £250 to £300k pa and I'd like to see them operate their own financial affairs, all of which becomes public knowledge as annual accounts are filed, so they have to handle everything a small business has to deal with - as I and about 5 million other SMEs have to do. I submit it would be an eye-opener for them, on an epic scale. (And still remember Jack Straw whining in 2008 that they weren't accountants... Neither was I but I knew a man who was!)

What’s the main issue facing the country? BREXIT - closely followed by the tolerance of Islam and what it is doing to this country.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Probably the election. Labour town heavily dependent on nuclear. Tory farming country concerned about Brexit impacts. People may disagree but I don't see any stand out failings in Barrow or Furness. It's in a good place, literally, and there are masses of decent jobs in close proximity.

Why should people vote for you? Because here in Barrow and Furness, the only 100 per cent Brexit candidate is me, standing for UKIP - and we do NOT trust Theresa May to deliver the full Brexit that the majority voted for in 2016.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: Cant think of any - I'm an open book.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Farage. Tebbit. Two solid Tory Brexiteers such as Jacob RM and John Redwood and two solid Labour Brexiteers such as John Mann and Kate Hoey. All alive last time I looked...

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Nothing - haven't got one (I hear the wife's and daughter's without remission for good behaviour!)

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Nah - here and now I'm afraid. I wouldn't mind the chance to have done a couple of things differently if the chance came again.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Probably The Donald [Donald Trump] - it's taken a man of his money and clout to even take on the globalist establishment, deep state and the swamp. I'd rather like to see something similar here.

What was the last book you read? Biography of Rudyard Kipling

Describe yourself in 3 words: Tall, fat, objective

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? The five minute moment - when I was struggling to give up smoking (it might take 5 minutes to convince yourself that you don't want that smoke, but once you've done it, it becomes a 5 minute moment. Worked for me.)

What’s your favourite joke? Not so much favourite as the one I tend to remember ... little girl looking at pregnant mummy and asks 'mummy, why are you so fat?' Mummy coughs a bit and says 'because Daddy's given me a baby'. Little girl goes to daddy and says 'Daddy - have you given mummy a baby?' 'Eerm yes' says daddy 'in a manner of speaking...' Well she's eaten it!'

John Woodcock Name: John Woodcock
Party: Labour and Cooperative parties
Age: 38
Born: Sheffield, England
Job: MP! And now a qualified teaching assistant
Family: Two wonderful girls, a lovely partner and an ex-wife who I am delighted still to call a friend

When and why did you join your party? I joined in my own right as a teenager because I was excited by the way the new Labour government were spending more on the NHS and promising a national minimum wage

Who is your political hero/heroine? Growing up as a kid in a Labour family, David Blunkett was the firebrand leader of Sheffield City Council. What a kind, inspiring man. It just seemed magical back then that someone who was blind was doing so much to help and lead people.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? That where you're born still too often determines what you achieve in life. Kids who are born here are every bit as smart as everywhere else, but too often they tend not to do as well. That is a burning injustice.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Getting the best deal from the Brexit negotiations. I want to be back in Parliament to demand that our terms of exit from the EU guarantee the best possible deal for families and businesses in Furness. If Theresa May gets a blank cheque, she is more likely to come up short.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The pain that a landslide Tory government would inflict on this area if we have a Conservative MP in Parliament who won't fight our corner. I've been with you, fighting to save things like our maternity unit at Furness General while the Conservatives have been in government nationally. A Tory MP for Barrow wouldn't vote against his own party.

Why should people vote for you? I've got myself into hot water during this campaign by making clear I will always put this area first, no matter how much controversy it causes. We are out on a limb here in Furness and we need someone who will fight to get us the best deal, not a Tory who will do what he is told and get lost in the crowd, just like the last time Barrow had a Conservative MP.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I can juggle fire. For real. You always need a Plan B in this game.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Dave Myers, who would cook even though it was my house. Henry Schneider, James Ramsden and William Cavendish who could tell us all about founding Barrow. John Lennon as long as he promised to be funny and not cruel or try to hold a sit-in for peace. Leonard Cohen because he just seemed like the most wonderful man. And giant of the postwar Labour government Ernest Bevin, because he was awesome, though I suspect he might have been a bit grumpy.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Um, the George Smiley novels in audiobook! Also Kanye West and Leonard Cohen (not duetting).

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? I am not sure that living in the past was all it was cracked up to be, but it might have been fun to live in Ancient Greece, except for all the perpetual fighting.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? John Shuttleworth, aka Graham Fellows, as long as he promised to sing Can't Go Back to Savoury Now and let me join in the chorus.

What was the last book you read? The Case for Democracy by Natan Sharansky. Laugh-a-minute, me

Describe yourself in 3 words: I can't quite... oh

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? That politically you should first decide what is right and then try to make it popular, rather than the other way round. That's what I most admired about my predecessor John Hutton.

What’s your favourite joke? A dangling participle walks into a bar. After finishing a drink, the bartender asks it to leave. I know. Sorry.

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Carlisle

Fiona Mills Name: Fiona Mills
Party: UK Independence Party (UKIP)
Age: 47
Born: Zimbabwe (my mum was teaching in Africa at the time). My family moved to Carlisle when I was four
Job: Qualified accountant working in the NHS supporting clinicians develop services
Family: Dad in Carlisle. Twin brothers, one now lives in Wigton and the other in Singapore

When and why did you join your party? I joined in February 2014 because I was completely disillusioned with the establishment parties. I believe in freedom and direct democracy and only UKIP fully embraces those values.

Who is your political hero/heroine? It has to be Nigel Farage. He got us the EU referendum despite huge reluctance from the Conservative government and we won it. He overcame all adversity and achieved his ultimate objective.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Electoral reform. We do not actually live in a democracy as First Past the Post is undemocratic. How can it be right that in the 2015 General Election UKIP received 3.9 million votes and only one MP, but the SNP got 56 with just 1.5 million votes? We need a proportional system so that every vote counts and tactical voting is unnecessary.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Security and the threat of terrorism. The first priority of a government should be the safety of its people.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? There are many, but we do need to make sure we have proper flood defences in order to prevent the ‘once in a hundred years’ event ever happening again. It caused such devastation.

Why should people vote for you? Unlike the other parties, UKIP does not have a party whip so that leaves me completely free to represent my constituents, which is how it should be. I would be a full time MP and would hold regular surgeries in order to engage with people. Sixty per cent of Carlisle residents voted to leave the EU in last year’s referendum and I am the only true Brexit candidate on the ballot paper. I spent six months campaigning to leave the EU; our Tory MP was a Remainer. I also have considerable NHS experience and I am a member of UKIP’s National Executive Committee. We believe in direct democracy; the people know best.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I’m a heavy rock/metal fan.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Oscar Wilde, Vivien Leigh, Henry Kissinger, Neil Armstrong and Graham Norton!

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Music is a big part of my life; I love live music and most genres. My favourite has to be symphonic metal – Within Temptation and Epica.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? I’m happy I was born when I was, to be honest. If pushed, I’d say Roman times.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Graham Norton. I think it would be interesting to interview a talk show host to see if he’s equally entertaining as a guest.

What was the last book you read? Brave New World by Aldous Huxley.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Far too honest.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Never assume anything.

What’s your favourite joke? I’m hopeless at remembering jokes and when I do try to tell them I laugh too much and people miss the punchline.

Ruth Alcroft Name: Ruth Alcroft
Party: Labour
Age: 40
Born: Bolton General Hospital
Job: Education Officer and Director, Susan's Farm - a social enterprise
Family: married with two children

When and why did you join your party? Aged 16; forced to join by a close friend of mine. I realised I had found my tribe and have been a member ever since.

Who is your political hero/heroine? I have two. Harriet Harman - I recently read her autobiography, A Woman's Work, and it was the first time I had ever had someone articulate my own experiences of juggling work, politics and family life. And Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president of an African country. She worked in the country through such periods of discord and terror and has worked tirelessly for peace and the betterment of her people.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? What I would like is to live in a country where everyone had what they needed - food, housing, job, enough money coming in for some treats - a holiday or whatever. When a country is secure, it barely notices its politicians. That feels like a bit of a luxury but it's what we should be working towards.

What’s the main issue facing the country? The impact of austerity and underfunding of public services.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? On the doorstep, people are worried about health and education. I think these are made worse by our distance from Westminster.

Why should people vote for you? I have life experience. I know what it's like to juggle two jobs, work around family life, check the bank balance to see when the child benefit is coming in so you know how much money you've got to see you to the end of the month. But I'm intelligent enough to get to grips with the issues that are facing us and I will stand up for Carlisle.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I played second row forward in Durham University Women's Rugby team.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Dave Grohl from the Foo Fighters. I'd be happy with just him... but if it's a table for 4, I'd also have Nye Bevan, the founder of the NHS, and Nadia Comaneci, the Romanian gymnast from the 1976 Olympics who scored the first ever perfect 10. I wanted to be her when I was little, but I didn't have the build for it.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Foo Fighters, Green Day and currently Hardwicke Circus's EP - Social Music, plus a lot of indie and alternative music from the 1990s.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The Roman Empire. I studied it at university and was supposed to be going to Rome for the first time this weekend, but I'm staying in Carlisle to campaign.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Dave Grohl - see above!

What was the last book you read? I'm currently reading A Son of War by Melvyn Bragg. My husband's too embarrassed to let me tell you the last book I finished...

Describe yourself in 3 words: friendly, interested, reliable

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? "This, too, shall pass" - from my mother! She's right; it always does, even when you're in the thick of what seems like a desperate situation. Keep going. It will pass.

What’s your favourite joke? Knock, knock. Who's there? Interrupting cow. Interrupting co... Mooooooooooo! ... I'm not great at jokes.

John Stevenson Name: John Stevenson
Party: Conservative
Age: 53
Born: Aberdeen
Job: Member of Parliament
Family: Married to Tracy

When and why did you join your party? I was interested in politics before 1993, but it was only once I finished my education and arrived in Carlisle that I joined the local Conservative Party. I believe in freedom, opportunity and choice, the Rule of Law and personal responsibility – the Conservative Party’s values are closest to my own beliefs.

Who is your political hero/heroine? You might be surprised to hear that it is Mikhail Gorbachev! I believe he helped avert what could have been one of the most catastrophic moments in modern European history.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Whilst the Palace of Westminster is being refurbished, I’d like to see Parliament moved to Carlisle.

What’s the main issue facing the country? The Brexit negotiations – and getting them right. This is probably the biggest issue our country has faced in a generation.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The Brexit negotiations again. They will have an impact nationally, but also locally here in Carlisle.

Why should people vote for you? Two main reasons. First, because we need strong national leadership ahead of the Brexit negotiations. It is vital to support Theresa May and the Conservatives to deliver this. The thought of Jeremy Corbyn and his team leading the negotiations chills me to the bone. And secondly, because we need a strong voice for Carlisle in Parliament – and someone like me with a track record of promoting our city to the national Government.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I worked for three months on a kibbutz (commune) in Israel. I experienced socialism first-hand – and it was then I realised it doesn’t work!

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): I’d like to dine with people such as Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Steve Jobs, and Alexander Graham Bell. Great innovators and engineers who helped transform society and our country and the world.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Bryan Adams…

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The Victorian era – they were tremendous innovators and reformers. The effect they had is still visible today.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Jeremy Paxman – I’d like him to be on the other side answering questions for once! I also think he would have some very interesting stories to tell.

What was the last book you read? Bill Bryson – One Summer: America 1927. A fascinating look at one pivotal year in American history.

Describe yourself in 3 words: I asked my wife, Tracy. She said: Busy, reliable and messy!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Don’t believe everything you read in a newspaper.

What’s your favourite joke? Two fish are in a tank. One says the other – “Do you know how to drive this thing?”

Peter Thornton Name: Peter Thornton
Party: Liberal Democrat
Age: 65
Born: Kendal
Job: Retired businessman/photographer
Family: Married with three daughters

When and why did you join your party? 2003, I wanted to become involved in politics and the Lib Dems best fitted my beliefs.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Tim Farron, for how he has changed politics in Cumbria.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? A proper planned approach to providing housing, including "Council Houses”. The market will not do this by itself.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Brexit and its knock on effects.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? See above

Why should people vote for you? Only the Liberal Democrats are prepared to negotiate a proper and harmonious exit from the EU.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: “Edelweiss”, from “The Sound of Music” still puts a tear in my eys

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Michelle Obama, Horatio Nelson and Mike Hailwood

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Beatles, Eric Clapton and Country

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? 2051, because it would mean I’d made 100 years old

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Theresa May, to ask her why she blew the election

What was the last book you read? A practical guide to electric bikes

Describe yourself in 3 words: Passionate, determined, delivers

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? "Your customers want to know what’s in the shop window and aren’t interested in how difficult it was to put it there."

What’s your favourite joke? Two men at a bar, in the Olympics. One says “Are you a pole vaulter?” The other replies; “No, I’m German but how did you know my name?"

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Copeland

Rebecca Hanson Name: Rebecca Hanson
Party: Liberal Democrats
Age: 44
Born: Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Job: Mathematics education adviser and Cumbria county councillor
Family: Married to Les - a highly experience nuclear engineer - with five children between us.

When and why did you join your party? 2011. As a Lecturer in Education (training teachers) I’d been involved in national policy consultation. The Tories shut down all consultation. Politics was the only way to challenge what they were doing and the Liberal Democrats were the only party with a team of people who could do that. So I joined them to help them.

Who is your political hero/heroine? William Beveridge – the Liberal MP who designed the welfare state.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would sort out the mess the Tories have made of public sector regulation. If this had already been done then the Success Regime consultation to remove maternity services would not have happened and the problems at Whitehaven Academy would not exist. This is an area of policy I’ve been working on for years and as MP I’d have the opportunity to progress it in parliament.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Definitely Brexit and the threat it poses to jobs, the economy, the nuclear industry and international stability.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Nuclear – all the issues associated with Sellafield, Moorside new build, infrastructure, employment and the disposal of waste. Most people in Copeland are directly affected by it and the Copeland MP needs to be able to represent all our complex nuclear issues clearly in parliament.

Why should people vote for you? Copeland needs an MP who can fully understand and clearly explain our complex and unique nuclear, NHS, education, infrastructure, rural and flooding issues in order to change minds when they need to be changed. I am confident that I can do that, as I have clearly demonstrated I can through my work on the Success Regime plans to close maternity services in Whitehaven and also in many other ways at local, national and international level through my professional and political work.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I love the smell of lilac trees. It reminds me of my childhood when we had one in the garden.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): My husband and I took Sir Vince Cable and his wife out for a meal and walk in Copeland recently. It was brilliant because we’ve so much in common. Vince is one of the few people who completely understands my work on public sector regulation and he’s got so much to teach me.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Steps – great summer chilling music.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Right now. I love my life! The period since the second world war has been peaceful and compassionate in the UK and we’ve made huge strides in reducing the extreme poverty that previously existed.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Prince Harry. That would help the ratings!

What was the last book you read? Joshua’s story by James Titcombe. It tells the story of how he exposed the Morecambe Bay Hospitals Trust scandal and ensured the serious issues there were addressed.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Dedicated, bright, professional.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Learn your limits and work around them.

What’s your favourite joke? What do you call a dead parrot? A polygon. (Maths teachers joke).

Trudy Harrison Name: Trudy Harrison
Party: Conservatives
Age: 41
Born: West Cumberland Hospital
Job: Conservative parliamentary candidate for Copeland
Family: Husband, Keith and four daughters, Gabrielle, 19, Savannah, 17, Francesca, 15, Rosemary, 14

When and why did you join your party? I joined the Conservative party in December 2016. It is, in fact, my predecessor, Jamie Reed whom I have to thank for inspiring my introduction to politics. The very first parliamentary debate I ever watched was a Westminster Hall debate called by Jamie to discuss the future of my children’s school, Captain Shaw’s in Bootle. I saw the positive impact that MPs in Westminster could have on their local communities and the powerful influence of their support, even in remote areas, which I had previously felt would never be anyone’s political priority.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Aung San Suu Kyi

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would strengthen the Northern investment and stop all industry investing in just the south and London area.

What’s the main issue facing the country? I believe the biggest challenge facing our country at the moment is the negativity and lack of confidence in our country’s prospects.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Having lived in west Cumbria all my life, I believe the biggest issue facing Copeland is the lack of investment over the years. Copeland desperately needs investment and with investment comes improved rail and road links, stronger and more reliable broadband, more jobs and opportunities and increased apprenticeships in order to invest in our children’s futures and inspire the next generation of leaders. With the government’s support, I know we can succeed as a hardworking and innovative community.

Why should people vote for you? A vote for me in the forthcoming General Election would mean a strong voice in Parliament for the people of Copeland and I will be working hard to ensure my constituents feel they have a reliable and efficient Member of Parliament who will get the job done. On February 24, the people of Copeland put their faith in me to deliver and I hope that on Thursday June 8, they will vote once again. What I managed to achieved in 68 days is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of what I will achieve for Copeland, given a full term in office. I am confident that, if elected, I can secure the investments and improvements we so desperately need.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I am fluent in Spanish

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): David Attenborough, Kevin McCloud, Elon Musk

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Unfortunately a dinosaur ate my iPod but anything from the 80s can be found on my iPhone 7 Plus.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Whilst Beatrix Potter’s era does appeal, I would have to say now due to the advances in medical sciences, quality of life and breadth of opportunity.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Rory Stewart, the Conservative candidate for Penrith and the Borders would have to be my first guest, as his life is fascinating. Not everyone has tutored both Prince William and Prince Harry - I think he would be a good crack.

What was the last book you read? A Moment in Time by Ivor Nicholas

Describe yourself in 3 words: Pro-active, determined and tenacious

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? My dad always says: ‘If a jobs worth doing, it’s worth doing right’

What’s your favourite joke? Bob: Did you hear about the 25-year-old rat in the local greengrocers?
Harry: How do you know it was 25-years-old?
Bob: It had a date up its bum

Herbie Crossman Name: Herbert Crossman
Party: UKIP
Age: 69
Born: February 1948 (London)
Job: Electrical Engineer
Family: Divorced and widow two children both girls and two grandchildren one of each

When and why did you join your party? UKIP 2009.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Sir Winston Churchill.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? To sought out the NHS and it’s associated subsidiaries.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Looking after the young and the mature persons.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Lack of support from Westminster and under funding in all areas.

Why should people vote for you? I will work for the constituency and the people of Copeland and not be a party PUPPET.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I care what happens in this country and what lies ahead for our children and grandchildren.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): The Queen.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Motown the 60s/70s.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The Late 19th Centaury and early 20th Centaury and why the invention of the motor car and plane.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Who else but Nigel Farage he speaks the truth.

What was the last book you read? Sorry, not a book reader but I do read to my grandchildren. They normally choose the book for me to read from.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Happy go lucky.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Get a trade (which I did).

What’s your favourite joke? Do not have one, I can never remember them.

Gillian Troughton Name: Gillian Troughton
Party: Labour
Age: 52
Born: Middleton, Lancashire
Job: Former doctor, worked in Children’s Services, now councillor and volunteer with St John Ambulance
Family: Married to Nick who works in the nuclear supply chain. Son Michael working in Stirling and daughter Lucy at university studying to be an architect

When and why did you join your party? I actually joined just prior to the 2010 General Election but had been a trade union activist for many years. Labour is the party that stands up for us when we most need it. The party of opportunity, fairness and equality. I wanted to make a difference.

Who is your political hero/heroine? I was inspired to get involved in politics by strong local voices like Roland Woodward in Millom and Peter Watson in Egremont: people getting on with making other people’s lives better. And of course, great social reformers like the abolitionist William Wilberforce. But my true heroine was Jo Cox, who I knew through the Labour Women’s Network. Jo’s humanity is particularly relevant in light of recent events. We do have more in common than that which divides us.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would like to lead by example in making the world a more tolerant and forgiving place, a real society. But a great small win would be to ensure that all kids learnt basic first aid and money management skills

What’s the main issue facing the country? Brexit. Article 50 has been triggered and it is vital that we properly negotiate a deal that prioritises the economy and living standards. Theresa May’s reckless approach risks leaving the country with no deal. Labour will prioritise the economy, protecting workers’ rights and the environment. Labour will also ensure continued membership of Euratom.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Long term, the problem is lack of investment stifling our education, health and other public services. However in the shorter term the real issue is uncertainty over our nuclear future. Labour is committed to securing the new build at Moorside to keep the lights on as part of a low carbon energy mix. Labour will protect nuclear jobs and pensions and we will continue membership of Euratom. The Tories make no mention of nuclear in their manifesto and have failed to underwrite Moorside.

Why should people vote for you? I am a strong local voice who will speak up for this area. I will fight for our public services and investment to make sure we all prosper.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I broke my leg parachuting.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Nelson Mandela, for stories and inspiration, Eddie Izzard, for humour and wisdom, Marie Curie, a pioneering woman scientist, Victoria Wood, a national treasure providing wit and repartee

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Everything from Status Quo to S Club 7! And a bit of jazz and Bach too.

If you could live in any period of history, when would you choose and why? Roman Britain – it would be fascinating to see Cumbria in Roman times, with the forts along the coast and at Hardknott and Hadrian’s Wall in its heyday.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Clement Attlee, Labour Prime Minister 1945-51 and at the heart of British politics at such an incredibly interesting time in politics and in British history.

What was the last book you read? A history of the Spanish Civil War

Describe yourself in 3 words: Determined, loyal, conscientious

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Only worry about the things you can change; work hard to change them for the better.

What’s your favourite joke? I can never remember them for long but quite like this... What do you call a sheep without legs and a head? A cloud.

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Penrith and The Border

Neil Hughes Name: Neil Hughes
Party: Liberal Democrats
Age: 60
Born: Liverpool
Job: Charity worker
Family: Married, two step-children

When and why did you join your party? First joined Liberal party 1981, Lib Dems in 1989 (following Lib/SDP amalgamation). Wanted to actively assist the communities I lived within get the best possible economic, political & environmental results for themselves.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Paddy Ashdown/H.H. Asquith/Vaclav Havel

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? A fairer housing and also benefits system

What’s the main issue facing the country? Inequality

Why should people vote for you? Young (and older) people’s transport

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I learned a little Welsh whilst working in Snowdonia

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Johannes Brahms

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Nothing – I don’t have one

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Any time before mobile phones were invented

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Emanuelle Macron

What was the last book you read? Gardener’s ‘Civil War’.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Adventurous, determined, disappointed

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? God actually exists

What’s your favourite joke? Two men walked into a building; you’d have thought at least one of them would have seen it.

Kerryanne Wilde Name: Kerryanne McKay Wilde nee Hunter
Party: United Kingdom Independence Party
Age: 44 (only just – 17/05/1973)
Born: Leith, Edinburgh
Job: Founder and CEO of CERT (UK) Ltd – Community Emergency Response Team (formerly Eden Flood Volunteers) - Unpaid
Family: Husband – Michael, 48 – Children – son Daryl, 21 and son Bailey, 15 – step-daughter, 20. I also have 2 fox-red Labradors and a shitzu

When and why did you join your party? March 25, 2017 – Due to the behaviour of the then run Cumbria County Council which was Labour/Lib Dem. It made my charities Flood Expo at Carlisle Racecourse and the run up to this, into a political playground by informing me that I needed to be mindful of whom I mixed with because Peter Whittle Deputy Leader of UKIP was attending on the first day. Even though all parties across England and the Scottish borders were invited to the expo as we as a charity had supported cross border during the floods of 2015/16.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Queen Victoria - Great Britain expanded in many ways during Queen Victoria's rule. Today she is associated with the country's 19th century cultural, social, economic, political, scientific, industrial, technological, military and colonial dominance.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? The behaviour and attitude of many politicians. I feel they behave like children in a playground, not the mature adults which have been voted into position to represent the people. I feel at times that some really do not take seriously the trust that many voters afford them, by voting for them.

What’s the main issue facing the country? There are many issues which the country faces but the biggest I feel is the terrorist threat from ISIS and their supporters, a minority terrorising the majority!

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? I feel the main issue facing our constituency is the lack of funding to adequately support transport, NHS and care services and education.

Why should people vote for you? I am the only candidate who does not have a hidden agenda. I am not using this as a stepping stone onto bigger or better things. I am putting myself forward to be the true “Grassroots Voice” of every individual who has ever been let down by previous or present government, to remind Westminster that Cumbria does exist, that Cumbria is vital, vibrant and versatile and is the gem in the UK’s basket.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I have a real issue with weight which reflects in clothes shopping, as I hate how different my clothes sizes are depending on what shop I buy from or the style of clothing I wear.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Sean Connery, Marilyn Monroe, Mother Teresa, Margaret Thatcher, Winston Churchill, Ricky Gervais, Sandra Bullock, Julia Roberts, Greig Laidlaw, My husband Michael and my children.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Pink, Meatloaf, Michael Jackson, Cream, Banderas, Will Young, Nik Kershaw, Elton John

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Victorian Era – I love the clothes which women wore, it was also quite a peaceful time in history apart from the Crimean War in 1854 and the Boer war at the end. The British Empire was the largest empire in history.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? If he was still alive it would be Robin Williams. He was a funny, surreal, witty and deep individual which I really do not think people got to know enough about.

What was the last book you read? What Daddy Did by Donna Ford

Describe yourself in 3 words: Persistent, trustworthy, inspiring

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? You are the maker of your own destiny and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! – Isobel Polson (My Grannie)

What’s your favourite joke? The family one which always raises a smile is:
Doctor Doctor I feel like a pair of curtains. Well pull yourself together then

Doug Lawson Name: Doug Lawson
Party: Green
Age: 46
Born: Watford, Hertfordshire
Job: My day job is IT Team Leader but like a superhero: by night I'm a Scout leader, town councillor and a school governor
Family: Wife - Kimberley, 2 Children - Josh and Milly; Sister - Liz; Mum & Dad - David and Kath. My family is from the North East and Scotland

When and why did you join your party? I joined the Green Party in 2009, but have always been green really. I got involved, because I think it's better to get things done, than sit back and watch.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Martin Luther King Jr. - he achieved so much, and all of it while suffering from severe depression.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Our electoral system: everything changes for the better when you make every vote count.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Economic and social inequality.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Austerity.

Why should people vote for you? Two years ago, less than half the country voted Conservative. No-one voted for an MP that just does what his party tells him. No one voted for austerity. No one asked the government to destroy education, close our hospitals, or punish our sick and elderly. We need to stand up for these things. We need a new plan - The Green Party offers that plan. I promise to listen to the people of Penrith and The Border.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I once came second in a Rick Astley lookalike contest.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): All my family. But I'd like Morgan Freeman to narrate and Moby to compose the musical score.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? My record player is currently playing Songs from the Big Chair by Tears for Fears. My Spotify account is a mess - that's what you get when you let your children make the playlists.

If you could live in any period of history, when would you choose and why? I sometimes wonder if life was simpler before we had mobile phones, the internet. But I'm excited about NOW; we have a chance to turn over a new page, a chance to stand up for something that matters.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Theresa May - I'd like to give her another chance to change her manifesto.

What was the last book you read? The Black Echo by Michael Connelly

Describe yourself in 3 words: Not good with rules.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Don't judge God in the light of circumstances, judge circumstances in the light of God (Nana Innes, 1988)
What’s your favourite joke? Want to hear a word I just made up? Plagiarism.

Jonathan Davies Name: Jonathan Davies
Party: Independent candidate
Age: 43
Born: North Yorkshire in 1974
Job: Small business owner web and software development, emarketing services. I also offer business consultant and business networking to small business as part of Cumbria Clique, that I am co-founder of
Family: Married for 17 years and dad to our three-year-old son

When and why did you join your party? Being Independent, I am not tied to any party. Why stand as an independent would be that we need independent proportional representation in Westminster. We need to reboot democracy in Great Britain.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Winston Churchill. If not for his leadership through this nation's dark days we would be living in a very different world today.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Make parliament more open and accountable to everyone. Through proportional representation and modernisation of our parliamentary system.

What's the main issue facing the country? Post Brexit uncertainty. The country and the Government has for the last two years been so focused on Brexit as a single event. From the campaigning before the referendum to the triggering of Article 50 onto the journey leading to where we are today with the General Election and onto Brexit Day itself. We have lost focus on everything else. Brexit is an opportunity for us to pause and look at where we are as a nation and the direction we go as a nation together.
The main issue is no-one has a plan for the future of UK. We have a lot of talk about the event Brexit Day but not what we do then. This is causing massive uncertainty and instability and no party has laid out what direction they would look to lead us beyond Brexit with a clear path and vision.

What's the main issue facing the constituency? As a rural constituency we have a number of issues that affect us from cuts to rural bus services, roads that need made fit for purpose. Broadband that has not been delivered to all and not at speeds to allow our small businesses to compete fairly. Our schools and hospitals are being further squeezed with cuts affecting local community provision with small schools being reviewed for possible closure and community hospitals facing cuts that will put lives at risk. These are only a few of the more widespread issues but every community across Penrith and The Border has issues that policy from Westminster is directly affecting them in varying ways.

Why should people vote for you? As a local resident, as a parent, as a small business owner I understand the issues affecting us all. Affecting us locally and as a nation.
As the only local Independent candidate for Penrith and The Border I have no restrictions from party manifestos and policies. I can and always will put the interests for you and your family before the interests of Westminster and the holder of the keys at number 10.
It's time for us to reboot democracy in Great Britain with independent representation for our local areas in Westminster to ensure your voice is heard and represented over the voice of the few.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: This is one you will not hear often in an election.
For standing up so we all have the democratic right to a free democratic choice and vote on June 8 in the election. I have the utmost respect for every candidate standing in Penrith and The Border but that's where the compliments end.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Margaret Thatcher, John Prescott, Whoopi Goldberg, Mikhail Gorbachev, Barack Obama, Mother Teresa, Eleanor Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Hilary Clinton, Agatha Christie

What's on your iPod/music player/CD player? Little Mix, Mika Love Today, Hellogoodbye Here (in your arms), Pink M!ssundaztod, Katy Perry I Kissed a Girl, Nelly Furtado Say it Right, Rouge Traders Voodoo Child, Aqua Barbie Girl, Gala Freed from Desire, QFX Freedom.

If you could live in any period of history, which would you choose and why? Right now the world is going through some big changes. We have massive advances in tech. In the next few years it will be possible for anyone to book a flight into space just as simple as booking a train ticket. There are even trials of flying cars, that was the future we imagined when I was growing up as a kid in the late 70s and 80s. We are living in a time of so much potential right now but also a lot of challenges as well and I thrive on challenges.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? The Queen. Given a free mic to say what she wanted. Can you imagine the comments. We all would love to know what she thinks really, every time she shakes another hand or meets a new Prime Minister.

What was the last book you read? Alan Sugar, The Way I See It: Rants, Revelations, and Rules for Life

Describe yourself in three words: --

What's the best piece of advice you've ever had? Never regret doing what you believe in. Only regret it if you don't try.

What's your favourite joke? Tory manifesto.

Rory Stewart Name: Rory Stewart
Party: Conservative
Age: 44
Born: 1973
Job: From 2010-2017 Member of Parliament for Penrith and The Border Family: Wife and two sons

When and why did you join your party? I felt I should remain politically neutral when I was a soldier and a civil servant. So I joined the Conservative Party shortly before standing for parliament - my main motive at the time was frustration at the way the Labour party had conducted the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and what I felt was their failure to trust local communities.

Who is your political hero/heroine? John Lawrence who brought 40 years of experience outside politics to Westminster and challenged government policy with wisdom, courage and eloquence.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would make sure that we invested in the skills, confidence and morale of civil servants – the quality of our civil service will be vital for any government long after individual politicians have come and gone.

What’s the main issue facing the country? At the moment, how to navigate well through the challenges and opportunities of Brexit. In the long-term, how to explain clearly and honestly the problems of financing increasing costs, a changing population, and rising expectations, in a modern economy.

What's the main issue facing the constituency? The fact that we are the largest, most sparsely populated constituency in England. All our other challenges facing transport, broadband, our schools, and hospitals, are shaped by our remote rural location.

Why should people vote for you? Firstly, for my record – for what I have tried to do for thousands of individual constituency cases over seven years; for the investment I have now secured for the county in broadband, in future flood defences and roads; for my campaigns to save precious community assets from the Penrith cinema, to our community hospitals; and I hope for trying to sit down to discuss with anyone – regardless of whether they vote for me, or support me - to talk through the complex policy issues we all face in Cumbria and in Westminster.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I wear two pairs of socks when I am hiking.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): My closest friends. There are many famous people I would like to meet – Lawrence of Arabia for example – but I feel that celebrities are not great company at dinner.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? A recording of Border Ballads from Cumbria, and Northumbria and Scotland sung by Jeannie Robertson

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now. I think this is a unique time – we have never been so healthy, never been so educated – we have far more opportunities than our parents and grandparents – and we have an astonishing opportunity to make the world a better place.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? I’d invite Donald Trump.

What was the last book you read? Vanished Kingdoms by Norman Davies

Describe yourself in 3 words: Not my style.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? “Never let a loaded gun, Pointed be at anyone.”

What’s your favourite joke? My son shouting ‘Ba-doongy-face”

Lola McEvoy Name: Lola McEvoy - it's actually Laura but only my parents and Grandma call me that - everyone else has called me Lola for years
Party: Labour
Age: 29
Born: Stockton, County Durham
Job: I run campaigns for a national charity working with low-paid workers
Family: Me and my partner Jack. I'm very lucky to have him!

When and why did you join your party? I joined in 2010 - I was shocked that Labour had lost the General Election and I wanted to help.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Oh, I've got hundreds - Millicent Fawcett (Suffragette), Barbara Castle (Labour MP), Frances O'grady (TUC) but most of all my Nan probably - she came over from Ireland in the 1940s and fought hard for her family to make ends meet. When I think back to what she had to deal with and the stress she must have been under as a working Mum with six children in a tiny house she inspires me to keep fighting. She makes me want to make sure people can earn a decent wage and that we help people get on in life.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I think our care system for looked after children desperately needs reforming. It's not a particularly popular issue to talk about but I think it really needs addressing.
I'd also like to see politics and global affairs taught in primary schools - so many children are left to find out for themselves what politics is and I think it effects everything we do and the kind of society we live in.
Finally - as an MP I'd like to champion better infrastructure to the North of England. We have so much to offer here and so many more people would come and visit if the trains and buses were improved.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Brexit is the issue at the front of everyone's mind but as well as that, the other issue that will effect future generations in the UK is the stripping back of our public services. This election is an election about values. Do we want a society that provides essential services needed for a compassionate and highly functioning country or do we believe in a sink or swim society?

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Time and time again on the doorstep people talk about their health service - will it be there to support them when they need it?
Their schools - are they going to give their children and grandchildren a decent start in life.
People often talk about Brexit - they're worried about the impact a 'hard Brexit' will have on the farming community and on tourism. Only Labour will be able to support our services and make sure we have an ambitious Brexit with people at the heart of it.

Why should people vote for you? I'm an ordinary person from a normal family and I've put myself forward because I couldn't stand by while working families are being hit by unnecessary cuts.
I have spent my career working with communities across the country and helping them fight for a seat at the table instead of having decisions made that effect them without their views being taken into account.
I think this experience and my family background in the North makes me a good spokesperson in Parliament for this area.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I've got a tattoo of the comedy/tragedy theatre masks. It really, really hurt.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): My Grandad - charm personified; Saul Alinsky - american community organising guru; Mo Mowlam - Former MP for Redcar - Labour legend; Peter Kay - makes me cry with laughter; My gorgeous partner Jack - he's a great cook; Cilla Black and Paul O'Grady - I think they'd have some cracking stories; Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - fantastic author; Emma Watson - she's brilliant; Ed Balls - he could teach me some of his moves!

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? New Music: Glass Animals - check them out; Vintage Classic: Paul Simon - Graceland (favourite album of all time); Guilty Pleasure: Frozen soundtrack!

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now! We're in unprecedented and amazing times of technological innovation. But if I had to choose - 1960s or 1970s - huge swathes of cultural change and great music.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Pope Francis - I think he's fascinating and I want to hear more about how he convinced the church to choose him!

What was the last book you read? The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt after we saw a goldfinch in the garden.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Resilient, loving and determined.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? "Be excellent at anything."

What’s your favourite joke? Cheese jokes!
What cheese do you use to hide a horse? Mascarpone

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Westmorland and Lonsdale

Eli Aldridge Name: Eli Aldridge
Party: The Labour Party
Age: 18
Born: December 25, 1998
Job: Student
Family : Lovely

When and why did you join your party? In the aftermath of the General Election of 2015, I joined the Labour Party. Having seen the effects of the Coalition Government tripling our tuition fees and start the funding cuts across youth services of £387 million since 2010, I joined the party that I believed had the best chance of defeating the Conservatives and also the party that shared my views.
Their collectivist attitude to the country, in the form of a compassionate and progressive movement appealed to me as it has done for hundreds of thousands in this country in the last few years. In my area, Labour were far and away the most welcoming and inclusive and this is indicative of the wider party, and I’m honoured they’ve put their faith in me to stand as a candidate in this election.

Who is your political hero/heroine? John Smith

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? --

What’s the main issue facing the country? Cuts to our vital services.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Security of our farming communities post-Brexit

Why should people vote for you? I’d push parliament for a strong and properly funded NHS, where staff feel valued and patients feel safe and well looked after. My local NHS trust will have a funding gap of £168m by 2021 and only a Labour Government can protect the future of our hospital with a commitment to keep our healthcare free at the point of use and ensure our fantastic doctors and nurses are treated with respect.
I’d also campaign to bring social care back under NHS provision and to make amends for the Health and Social Care Act that has been so damaging to our services. I’d also make a reform of CAMHS a priority, arguing for a transitional body which helps those left behind by CAMHS at 16 make that phased step into adult therapy.
I would go further than 10,000 new mental health professionals the Conservatives pledged, they’ve cut almost 7,000 mental health staff from our services since 2010 and I’d advocate for 20,000 new trained professionals across our service to break the stigma and give it parity in the funding given to physical health - something that the Coalition Government pledged to do but failed to implement.
I’ll be campaigning to put an end to Theresa May’s pet project of free schools and grammar schools, already budgeted at a minimum of £320 million - when our current schools are running huge deficits amid a funding crisis of £3 billion worth of savings by 2019. I’d focus on bringing to Westmorland and Lonsdale a system with smaller class sizes and more impetus placed on learning over the rigid exam reform brought in under the Coalition government.
I’ll continue South Lakes Labour’s local push for high-speed broadband across Westmorland and Lonsdale - connecting everyone across the constituency. I’d advocate for the necessary upgrades to our flood defences, something that Tim Farron failed to press the Government on when they cut flood defence funding, meaning that when Storm Desmond so devastatingly swept in, the constituency was left exposed and the cost of fixing the storm damage was far greater than that of the initial flood defence proposal.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I have an American mother, so despite being born in Westmorland General and my father hailing from Coniston, I have dual-citizenship.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Francis Fukuyama, Lou Reed, Alan Bennett and Billie Holliday.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Tame Impala.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? I think life in the Jazz age of 1920s America would be great fun!

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? I’d probably have Richard Ayoade. His work both as an actor and a director are unique and his deadpan delivery and humorous anecdotes would make him the perfect guest on a talk show.

What was the last book you read? Harper Lee - Go Set A Watchman

Describe yourself in 3 words: Labour Parliamentary Candidate.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck and it quacks like a duck, it’s probably a duck.

What’s your favourite joke? The Conservative Party Manifesto 2017.

Mr Fish Finger Name: Mr Fishfinger
Party: Oh yes please! (Finndependant)
Age: Use by date is 2022
Born: North Sea
Job: Providing a hearty meal
Family: I am from a pack of 10

When and why did you join your party? --

Who is your political hero/heroine? Dennis Skimmer

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Student Seas

What’s the main issue facing the country? In light of the appalling terrorist attacks in Manchester, we need do do and not say!

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Brexit and making shore that all people get a fair deal.

Why should people vote for you? It's time to change pollocktics. When a fish finger is announced as the MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale we can start to change the system to work for the people not MPs.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I can hold my breath under water for years?

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): So long as Fish Fingers are on the menu everyone

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Fish (Marillion)

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The great cod wars

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Billy Connolly because he is a genius

What was the last book you read? The Codfather

Describe yourself in 3 words: Dace-ent, a Peas man, a Cod guy

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? --

What’s your favourite joke? Why are pirates called pirates? Because they Arrrrghhhh

Tim Farron Name: Tim Farron
Party: Lib Dems
Age: 46
Born: 27 May 1970
Job: Father, husband, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale
Family: Wife and four children

When and why did you join your party? I joined the Liberal Party, as it was then, when I was 16. I was politicised by seeing the film ‘Cathy Come Home’ about the effects of homelessness and poverty.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Probably Shirley Williams

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would ensure that everyone has a decent place to call home. Housing is so important for so many other issues that affect society.

What’s the main issue facing the country? The Conservatives could be on track for a massive majority – bigger than anything that even Margaret Thatcher had. I don’t have to imagine what that would mean for our communities – I remember my childhood, growing up in Preston. We cannot afford to have a government that takes the country for granted.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The Conservatives are planning £572 million of cuts to our local health services by 2021. This is the equivalent cost of one and a half hospitals. Yet we face an ageing population and growing demand for services. Cuts on this scale would be devastating for our local hospitals and for access to vital services. We need to be investing in our NHS, not slashing its funding.

Why should people vote for you? Over the last 12 years it has been a massive privilege to be the MP for our area and I am incredibly proud of the things we have achieved together. From campaigning to bring chemotherapy to our hospital and saving our mental health ward last summer, through to helping people with housing issues and winning £24m of funding for a flood defence scheme on the River Kent – I have always put our area first and fought hard to get the best deal for local residents. I know that local residents will judge me on that record.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: Back in the 80s I was in a band called ‘Fred the Girl’. We weren’t terribly good…

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Colin Hendry, Paddy McAloon, Camilla Läckberg, Joe Strummer, CS Lewis, Frank Sidebottom, Bobby Moore, Eric Morecambe, Nancy Seear. From football and music through to politics and literature, there should be plenty to talk about!

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Prefab Sprout is my default, but I'm also currently listening to Public Service Broadcasting and Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The late 1960s would have meant seeing England win the World Cup and getting to watch the Apollo landings as they happened. It's hard to beat that!

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Paddy McAloon, singer songwriter of Prefab Sprout. I would then bore all the viewers - and Paddy - by forensically going over his lyrics like the nerd that I am!

What was the last book you read? Imperium by Robert Harris

Describe yourself in 3 words: Never standing still!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Be yourself.

What’s your favourite joke? Why did the mushroom go to the party? Because he was a fungi to be with.

James Airey Name: James Airey
Party: Conservative
Age: 48
Born: Kendal
Job: Farmer
Family: Wife Caroline, son Owen, 13

When and why did you join your party? Joined the party when I was 15 seeing the mess the country had been under a Labour Government in the 70s. I didn’t want to go back to that dreadful situation.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Winston Churchill

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? Ensure every young person gets the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Ensuring we get the best Brexit deal possible.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Making sure we have a strong voice at the heart of Government. We need to be properly represented and heard on everything how Brexit negotiations impact us locally to increasing to support for local services.

Why should people vote for you? I am a strong and experienced local candidate who will be an influential voice in Government, not carping from the sidelines.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: The terrible shirts I wear are the responsibility of my wife not me!

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Sir David Jason, Prince Harry, Sheridan Smith and Dame Judy Dench.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? I am a Radio 2 fan, everything from the Beatles to Beyonce.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? --

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Daniel Craig, I am a massive Bond fan.

What was the last book you read? Clive Cussler's Dark Watch

Describe yourself in 3 words: Hardworking, honest and compassionate

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Always be positive!

What’s your favourite joke? My wife accused me of being immature. I told her to get out of my fort.

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Workington

Clark Vasey Name: Clark Vasey
Party: Conservative
Age: 36
From: Born and bred Cumbrian from Carlisle
Job: A manager within a large IT company
Family: From a working class Cumbrian family, married to Alice an NHS doctor and father to James

When and why did you join your party? 1997 because I did not believe Tony Blair spoke for working people and I wanted to be part of a party that prioritised jobs and created opportunity. Today with Jeremy Corbyn’s metropolitan Labour party the gulf between Labour and the working class has never been greater, so I am glad I joined.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Robert F Kennedy, because he believed in giving a voice to people who had been left without a voice. Labour have taken Workington voters for granted for too long and have failed to give them the voice to ensure that the area gets a fair deal on everything from services to the infrastructure investment the area needs. I am determined to be the strong Cumbrian voice the area needs.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would look again at international aid. Yes it is right that we help the most vulnerable as the UK always has, but some of the money we spend would be better spent on our priorities at home like social care or the NHS.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Getting the best deal from Brexit. Only Theresa May is strong enough to get the UK a good deal. The Workington constituency voted strongly to leave the EU and I am the only candidate who can ensure that we get a deal which works for everyone, regardless of how they voted. By supporting the Prime Minister I will ensure that Workington’s voice is heard and that the final deal is one which supports local businesses and jobs.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The threat Jeremy Corbyn poses to Cumbria’s nuclear future, with his opposition to all things nuclear which would put jobs at risk across the constituency and tear a hole in our county’s economy.
His policies nationally would bankrupt our country and put local services in danger by leaving nothing to pay for health and education, with Cumbria so low on Labour’s priorities. Labour have already failed to secure a fair deal for the area on infrastructure and have not delivered improvements to roads like the A595. With Corbyn’s bankrupt Britain any chance of securing improvements would be gone. With a Conservative Government and me giving the area stronger voice the area will receive the attention it deserves.

Why should people vote for you? Because as a Cumbrian I am committed to the best future for our county and after years of being taken for granted by Labour I can be the strong Cumbrian voice Workington needs.
I can protect Cumbria’s nuclear future from Jeremy Corbyn. I will fight to get Workington a fair deal on infrastructure improvements, such as to the A595 and services, particularly on the NHS after Labour have failed to deliver in these areas.
During this campaign alone I have managed to get the issues which matter to Workington higher on the agenda of Ministers than Labour have managed in the past two years.
I will also be a strong voice in championing Cumbria’s nuclear future and the jobs that go with it, which would be put at risk by Jeremy Corbyn's Labour.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: A lot of people know I was a Special Constable and always campaign in my old police boots, but not long after leaving the specials I came across a stabbing victim and used the skills the police gave me to save his life.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Sid James, Kenneth Williams, Joan Simms, in fact depending on the size of the dinner table as many Carry On cast members as I could manage.

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Mostly classic rock - The Who, Bowie, the Stones, Lynryd Skynyd and loads more.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now. With Brexit we have one of those historic opportunities to reshape our country for the better. It doesn't matter how you voted, this is an opportunity for us all to build a more successful, outward looking Britain with its best days ahead.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Jeremy Corbyn to grill him on his past support for the IRA, why he still refuses to unequivocally condemn them for their terrorist acts and why he will meet the perpetrators of IRA terrorism, but not the victims. Why he considers the terrorist groups Hamas and Hisbollah to be his friends and if he considers whether his historic views on terrorism both in the UK and abroad make him fit to be Prime Minister?

What was the last book you read? The second of a 3 part narrative on the American Civil War by Shelby Foote, I am onto part three now.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Strong Cumbrian Voice

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Be yourself and you can’t go far wrong

What’s your favourite joke? Pretty much anything in a Carry On film, but especially the perfect timing and delivery of Peter Butterworth.

Sue Hayman Name: Sue Hayman
Party: Labour
Age: 54
Born: Upper Bucklebury, Berkshire
Job: Labour Member of Parliament for Workington, 2015-17
Family: Married to Ross, two grown-up children

When and why did you join your party? I joined Labour in 1992. I’d just had my second child and wanted to be part of building a future for my children. I believe that Labour values would build that future.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Helle Thorning-Schmidt, former Prime Minister of Denmark

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I want to ensure that the Government of the day understands that in Cumbria we have very specific needs when it comes to investment in our public services and infrastructure. We’re very different to other parts of the country and the solutions we need are going to be very different to what the Home Counties need. We need policies in place that would deliver the maximum benefit for people in Cumbria – whether they live in the towns or the countryside.

What’s the main issue facing the country? We have to ensure that we get a good Brexit deal that works for every community in our country. A good Brexit deal would ensure that our economy prospers while maintaining access to the Single Market and the Customs Union – this is particularly important for so many businesses, large and small, particularly in Cumbria. We also need to retain our membership of Euratom, which is crucial for our local nuclear industry.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The desperate need for investment in local public services and infrastructure – our healthcare and education systems and our road and rail transport. Labour has a fully costed plan to invest heavily in our NHS and in our schools and we would set up a fund to invest £250 billion in our infrastructure over 10 years. Labour would underwrite the cost of the nuclear new-build at Moorside and is fully committed to the local nuclear industry and the supply chain.

Why should people vote for you? People tell me I’ve achieved a lot for our community in just two years – re-elect me and I’ll continue working hard making a difference and getting things done for Workington constituency.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I am a member of the Parliament Choir.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): It’s corny but as my children are now grown up I don’t get to see them as much as I’d like – so the whole family together around the dinner table!

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? An Icelandic choir.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? Now – I’m interested in shaping the future, not looking to the past.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Barack Obama, to see what he makes of what’s happened in the world since he left office.

What was the last book you read? A biography of Mary Queen of Scots.

Describe yourself in 3 words: Honest, hardworking, compassionate.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Never give up – persistence pays.

What’s your favourite joke? What did the cheese sat to the mirror? Halloumi!

Roy Ivinson Name: Roy Ivinson
Party: Independent
Age: 62
Born: Penrith
Job: Farmer
Family: None

When and why did you get into politics? All I did was apply to be an MP in 2015, my history teacher was a bit of a politician.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Mrs Kastner, she was a Jew in Hungary during the Nazi occupation. She negotiated with Eichmann to persuade him to release some Jews. That was a very clever piece of manoeuvering - she got something out of a situation in a position of such great weakness.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? The lack of interest amongst the general public towards the consequences of global warming.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Brexit and climate change

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Brexit and climate change

Why should people vote for you? Because climate change produces an industrial opportunity for the people of this constituency. It's going to bring the opportunity to develop industries such as solar, nuclear and hydro on the west coast of Cumbria and it's never happened since the industrial revolution. None of the political parties are pushing that because it's not part of their London agenda.

Share a personal fact no-one would ever guess about you: I like fruit trees, I've got an orchard.

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): A woman I liked

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? I'm computer-phobic, I fail to want to be interested. I've bought a tablet for this election, I'm trying.

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The Battle of Kursk. It's the moment that European history was decided for the next century at least.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Admiral Nelson, he was such a genius at what he was.

What was the last book you read? The autobiography of Mao Tse Tung

Describe yourself in 3 words: Unemployed politician

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? Think of yourself - but I've never taken it.

What’s your favourite joke? The fact that I can't tell them

George Kemp Name: George Kemp
Party: UKIP
Age: 61
Born: Maryport
Job: Publican
Family: Married to Andrea; two children, Rebecca and Joseph

When and why did you join your party? I joined the party about five years ago because I really like what UKIP was talking about. Nigel Farage, to me, was head and shoulders above any other politician at the time and that's what's attracted me to it.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Winston Churchill and Nigel Farage

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? The biggest thing I would like to see in west Cumbria is a severe upturn in jobs. The west Cumbrian economy has been decimated with the loss of British Steel and Marchon. We have lost the manufacturing industry and we need it back.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Most of the issues are fuelled by too much immigration. It puts severe pressure on services. We just don't have the facilities, or doctors, hospitals or schools.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? The main thing to me is the NHS, obviously the maternity services at West Cumberland Hospital. In Maryport, the loss of beds at Maryport cottage hospital. There is no bus service from Maryport to Cockermouth. It would be horrendous for our town if those hospital services go."

Why should people vote for you? I think I am the only one out of the Workington candidates that was born here. I'm passionate about the area and I'm passionate about the people. I'm a local person that wants to see the best for our area. We need jobs and infrastructure.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: I'm four times the World's biggest liar. If I go to Westminster, being the world's biggest liar would help me fit in!

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): Enoch Powell and Billy Bremner

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? Mario Lanzo and Josef Locke - they are both famous tenors

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? The Victorian era because they did things and made things happen. The Victorians were brilliant people - they got things done.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? Ken Dodd - without a doubt because I think he's one of the funniest people I've ever met. He is a fantastic comedian and a fantastic fella.

What was the last book you read? Beano annual

Describe yourself in 3 words: Committed, honest and fair

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? You never get a second chance to make a first impression

What’s your favourite joke? Last week my wife wanted to put some shelves up. I didn't know what to do so I went to the library and asked the librarian: "Have you got any books on shelves?" She said: "Yes, lots." So, I said: "Well, I didn't realise you could get so many books on shelves."

Phill Roberts Name: Phill Roberts
Party: Liberal Democrat
Age: 63 (14/07/1953)
Born: --
Job: Retired
Family: 3 children and 6 grandchildren

When and why did you join your party? Joined the Liberal Democrats when the party formed from the SDP and Liberal Party.

Who is your political hero/heroine? Shirley Williams.

If you could change one thing as an MP, what would it be? I would change the voting system to a Fairer Voting system (STV) so that all votes mattered.

What’s the main issue facing the country? Inequality.

What’s the main issue facing the constituency? Investment in our community.

Why should people vote for you? --

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you: --

Who would be your dream dinner party guests (alive or dead): --

What’s on your iPod/music player/CD player? --

If you could live in any period of history, when you choose and why? I prefer to live now. We learn from history but I prefer to live now and plan for the future.

If you hosted a talk show, who would be your first guest and why? --

What was the last book you read? --

Describe yourself in 3 words: Determined, tolerant and compassionate.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever had? --

What’s your favourite joke? --

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