THE CONSERVATIVES have selected their candidate to be in for the running of becoming the first ever Mayor of West Yorkshire.

Matt Robinson, who has been a Leeds City Councillor since 2010, was selected by Conservative members on Saturday.

The West Yorkshire Mayoral elections are in May.

If elected, Mr Robinson's priorities will include focusing on economic recovery for the region, improving community safety by increasing the visible police presence and a plan for a connected public transport system for the whole of West Yorkshire. 

He said: “I am thrilled to be selected as the Conservative mayoral candidate for West Yorkshire.

“Becoming the first West Yorkshire Mayor is a massive job for our county and filled with huge opportunities and responsibilities.

“We can see how successful Conservative mayors have been across the country in the likes of the West Midlands and Tees Valley and I am confident, If elected, I can ensure people living in West Yorkshire reap the benefits of this devolution programme.

“People across West Yorkshire have watched as other parts of the country have been improved by having a mayor and I will work to make sure we don’t miss out.

“Until May’s election. I will be talking to as many people as possible across the Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield districts to share my vision for West Yorkshire – the vision I believe can help improve lives for everyone living and working here.

“I will show I am the best candidate to become West Yorkshire mayor and can work alongside the Conservative Government to deliver on my plans."