A councillor is bidding to become an MP.

Clr Cahal Burke is contesting the Colne Valley seat at May’s general election.

Lindley’s Clr Burke was selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate and has set out his priorities.

A former special education needs teacher, Clr Burke was re-elected in last May’s local elections with a 1,144 majority – and he’s offered to foot the bill of a council by-election if he wins the general election.

Clr Burke said: “I love what I do, it is a great privilege to represent people and I enjoy it.

“For me this would be taking it to a different level.

“If I was elected I would stand down (as a councillor) but I would pay for the by-election, that would be the right thing to do. If I was elected as MP that would be the main focus.”

He is the chair of Lindley Community Group, a volunteer organisation responsible for Lindley Carnival and Lindley 10K.

He said he would campaign based on his track record for Lindley and Kirklees and the positive things Liberal Democrats have achieved in Government.

He added: “It is quite clear that the majority of the fair, constructive and progressive Government policy that has emerged over the last five years has come from the Liberal Democrats.

“Our income tax policy, for example, has given 26 million people a £800 a year tax cut. Our focus on apprenticeships has given 1.8 million people the opportunity to learn a trade or skill and build a better life for themselves.

“Our introduction of free school meals and the Pupil Premium has helped create an even playing field for millions of disadvantaged youngsters. And our prioritisation of funding for mental health services has ensured people get the help they need, when they need it.

“All of these policies are fair, empowering and progressive and would not have happened without Liberal Democrats in Government.”

Priorities include making certain NHS funding is increased by £8bn in real terms by 2020; reducing the cost of living via the introduction and/or expansion of policies such as income tax cuts for low and medium earners, affordable and free child care, among others.