THE Shadow Chancellor visited Hartlepool and met with the Labour candidate for the by-election today (Friday).

Anneliese Dodds met Dr Paul Williams at Liberty Steel in the town.

While there they toured the steel mill and met with workers there.

After the visit, Ms Dodds said: "I've wanted to visit for some time. It was really fantastic to see the technology in action - it's critical for the UK's future, including Hartlepool.

"What really matters to me - I know Paul Williams has been speaking to a lot of people in Hartlepool - the healthcare system, people are wanting to have that conversation with the Labour party. Now think we can have a better connection with someone on the frontline. The choice at this election is someone like Paul Williams backing our key workers, compared to the Conservatives' pay cut, we've got to get that message across, and I've got to be here in Hartlepool to play my part in that."

Meanwhile, Conservative Party Chairman Amanda Milling has backed plans to secure more investment and bring in jobs across Hartlepool.

The chairman joined by-election candidate Jill Mortimer and Steve Turner, the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner candidate for Cleveland on the campaign trail, visited Owton Manor and spoke to residents about their plans to deliver the change they want.

She said: “It was great to be on the doorstep with our fantastic candidate Jill. Labour has let Hartlepool down for the past 57 years they’ve been in charge and it’s now time for change, which only Jill can bring about as the next Conservative MP working hard with the Government in Westminster on her plan for more jobs, apprenticeships and investment to regenerate Hartlepool.”

Mrs Mortimer said: “Local people have been really enthusiastic about the chance to secure the change Hartlepool needs after decades of missed opportunities by Labour MPs. Conservatives have made a start with Ben Houchen as mayor, getting Brexit done and starting more than 690 apprenticeships here in Hartlepool. Now we can go further, that’s why my plan for jobs, investment and regeneration is so important.”

Other candidates include: David Bettney, Social Democratic Party; The Incredible Flying Brick, Monster Raving Loony Party; Hilton Dawson, The North East Party; Gemma Evans, Women’s Equality Party; Rachel Featherstone, The Green Party; Adam Gaines, Independent; Andrew Hagon, Liberal Democrat; Steve Jack, Freedom Alliance; Chris Killick; Sam Lee, Independent; Claire Martin, Heritage Party; John Prescott, Reform UK; Thelma Walker, Independent and W. Ralph Ward-Jackson, Independent.

* The by-election visits were made before the death of the Duke of Edinburgh was announced, after which election campaigning was suspended by all political parties.