Tracy Brabin is first Mayor of West Yorkshire and was previously MP for Batley and Spen. Before entering politics, Tracy appeared in popular television dramas, including Coronation Street and Emmerdale, and she also wrote for both Hollyoaks and Shameless. She now lives in Slaithwaite. Here she speaks to Kathryun Armstrong, editor of Yorkshire Life

Something in Yorkshire that makes you smile

When I’m at one of the many wonderful Park Runs we have in West Yorkshire – it’s brilliant to see everyone getting active and all the fantastic volunteers that give up their time to help. I’m never happier than when running and getting to meet people who enjoy it as much as me always puts a smile on my face!

 A place you love to eat 

I’ll have to say Mowgli in Leeds. The food and the décor are gorgeous, and there’s something for everyone. It’s all Indian street food and I love to try a bit of everything when I go – the vegetarian options are great, and the swing seats are fun! A must-visit when you’re in Leeds.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Life

A place to take friends

The picturesque Salts Mill in Saltaire. There are so many things to do and see inside the Mill, particularly the David Hockney exhibitions. David is one of West Yorkshire’s greats, having grown up in Bradford. His paintings are incredible and it’s wonderful to have so many in one place, so it’s definitely a place to go with friends and family.

A childhood memory

I would have been around ten years’ old when we took one of our first family trips to Ilkley Moor – and I fell in love with the beautiful landscape. I remember sitting outside a pub, drinking pop with a bag of crisps, with the sun on my face and thinking how special this place was. It was one of my happiest memories growing up.

A cultural go-to

We are blessed in Yorkshire with a thriving culture industry, something I am immensely proud of. My favourite place to visit is The Domino Club in Leeds. It’s a lovely jazz club hidden in the Grand Arcade and always has incredible artists playing jazz, funk, blues, and soul. It’s an intimate venue with excellent cocktails, and somewhere I go when I want to relax and enjoy some good live music.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Canals in Tracy's hometown in Slaithwaite. Canals in Tracy's hometown in Slaithwaite. (Image: Kevin Gibson)

Inspiration outdoors

I’m lucky enough to live in the scenic village of Slaithwaite, which has inspiration wherever you go. When I want to relax and unwind, I will always go on a long walk down the canals between Marsden and Slaithwaite. Nothing beats the feeling of taking in the fresh West Yorkshire air and the landscape that surrounds the canals. I always feel inspired when I’m outdoors, especially when I’m near home and can appreciate the beauty of where I live. And the dogs love it too!

A place for indulgence

It has to be The Manor House in Lindley. It’s an old Georgian mansion nestled in the most beautiful grounds. It indulges all the senses, serving stunning food in a charming interior, all in a tranquil setting on the outskirts of Huddersfield.

A Yorkshire view that inspires

Yorkshire is famous for its rolling hills and glorious scenery, and I’m lucky that Slaithwaite has both in abundance. I love walking over the tops and looking down over the valleys, it makes me happy that I live in such a beautiful place which inspires me every day.

I'm never happier than when

Running along the canal. Running is one of my favourite things to do to clear my head or take time for myself, and I feel extremely lucky that I’m able to do it outdoors along some of the wonderful canals in West Yorkshire.

Three words that sum up your best Yorkshire life?

Culture, canals and curry!