Listening to you, it’s clear we share the same desire for a fully funded public, not private, NHS; for decent, secure, properly paid jobs; an economy that works for all of us, not just a few and where the wealthy pay their way.

Here in Norwich I’ve campaigned against the privatisation of local NHS services; been at the centre of a broad coalition of trade unions, faith groups, businesses and academics working for a Living Wage across the city; and worked with local campaign groups and trade unions for public ownership of the failing privatised rail industry.

I’m passionate about Norwich’s developing scientific centres of excellence. I support institutions such as the Norwich Research Park in its aim of developing the city’s future by creating and supporting new companies and jobs based on world-leading bioscience and renewables technology.

But despite all that I’m not your typical politician. My life outside of politics has given me experience of the real world. For more than a decade I was a BBC TV news reporter, eventually becoming the BBC eastern region’s chief political reporter. After that I worked as a BBC technician. I’ve also been an army reservist infantry officer, serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2009.

I’m also an associate governor of Thorpe St Andrew School and have worked with other schools and charities to help some of our city’s most disadvantaged children. I was also one of the last Labour Government’s National Black Role Models – working with young people across the UK.

Born in London, I grew up on a council estate in Northampton. I attended a local comprehensive, becoming the first member of my family to attend university. I read economics at the University of Bradford before being elected student union president; and eventually Vice President of the National Union of Students (NUS).

I’m also a proud supporter of Norwich City Football Club with a season ticket in the Barclay.

Ultimately I’ll always speak my mind and I’ll do what is best for Norwich.