THE local Conservative party is already making plans to fight the next general election in the region.

South Tees Conservatives have chosen Simon Clarke as their new Parliamentary spokesman for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland.

As Parliamentary spokesman for that area, Mr Clarke will spearhead the Conservatives’ campaigning in the constituency ahead of a formal candidate selection closer to the General Election.

He said: “It’s a huge privilege to have the opportunity to champion the area where I grew up. I’m looking forward to getting out and speaking to as many people as possible, and to working with Conservative councillors to address their concerns.”

Mr Clarke is a qualified solicitor and works as a policy specialist on health and education. He contested the Middlesbrough constituency at the 2015 General Election.

Constituency chairman Malcolm Griffiths, who represents the Brotton ward on Redcar and Cleveland Council said: “We’re delighted to have chosen Simon to represent us. He’s a good campaigner who knows Teesside inside out.”