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19
Apr
David Skaith is tasked with winning York and North Yorkshire’s mayoral election for Labour in under two weeks’ time.
The York-based businessman joined the party in 2015 after becoming “fed up” with the way the country was going politically.
Born and raised in Harrogate, Mr Skaith studied at York St John University and later set up his men’s clothing brand, Winstons of York, in the city. He has run the business for eight years.
After an unsuccessful campaign to win a seat on Labour-run City of York Council in 2023, he is now tasked with making the first Mayor of York and North Yorkshire a Labour one.
In an interview with the Stray Ferret, he says he sees the role as one that is more business-orientated, rather than political.
He said:
Mr Skaith meets Lilla Bathurst, Ripon BID manager, on a visit to Ripon.
Mr Skaith, who is also chair of the York High Street Forum, has focussed many of his pledges on helping people and businesses.
Inspired by a similar scheme in neighbouring West Yorkshire, he has promised to introduce a cost of living support fund to help those who are struggling financially.
He has also announced that his term as mayor would also include a high street fund which will be designed to support businesses financially and strategically.
The York and North Yorkshire mayor will be chosen by residents of the region in an election on Thursday, May 2, 2024.
The full list of candidates are:
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