Former Coronation Street actress Tracy Brabin has been selected as the Labour candidate for the Batley and Spen by-election after the death of MP Jo Cox.
Former Corrie actress Tracy Brabin has promised to be a “loud, proud and strong Yorkshire voice” after she was selected as the Labour candidate for the by-election called after the death of her friend Jo Cox.
Ms Brabin, who has appeared in just about every British TV soap over the last 20 years, is strongly predicted to be the next MP for Batley and Spen, in West Yorkshire, as all the other major parties have vowed not to contest the seat.
The actress and screenwriter was selected by around 300 party members on Friday night ahead of the only other shortlisted candidate, Jane Thomas, following hustings at a Batley school.
Ms Brabin said: “This was a by-election none of us wanted, brought about by tragic circumstances.
“Jo Cox was a friend of mine. She was a wonderful person and an absolutely outstanding MP for the constituency which she, like me, was proud to have grown up in and call home.
“No one can replace Jo, but I promise that if you put your faith in me at this by-election, I will be a loud, proud and strong Yorkshire voice speaking up for everyone in Batley and Spen.
“I want to reassure people who have voted for other parties in the past – parties which are not contesting this election – that if elected I will stand up for you just as much as I will for Labour voters.
“I look forward to meeting as many people across the constituency as possible in the coming weeks, to seek your trust and support.”
Ms Brabin was brought up in a council flat in the constituency and her mother owned a popular local cafe called Betty’s.
She worked with Mrs Cox on her campaign to save the local library.
Ms Brabin played Tricia Armstrong in Coronation Street in the 1990s before appearing as Roxy Drake in EastEnders, and Carole in Emmerdale.
She has also written for shows including Family Affairs, Tracy Beaker and Hollyoaks.
The poll, which will take place on October 20, was called following the death of Mrs Cox, who was 41 and had two young children when she was shot and stabbed to death on June 16.
Her killing shocked the nation and provoked an outpouring of bewilderment and soul-searching around the world.
The Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Ukip have said they will not field a candidate in the by-election but fringe parties Liberty GB and the English Democrats have said they will contest the seat. An independent candidate has also said he will stand.
