Ryton, Crookhill and Stella

Activist Stephen Kelly

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

I have a clear vision for Ryton – one that brings new energy to our village and builds on the strength of our community. I’ve lived in the area for many years. I’m married with two adult children, and I care deeply about the future of Ryton – not just for my family, but for everyone who calls this place home.

Ryton has grown significantly in recent years, but our infrastructure and village centre haven’t kept pace. I want to change that.

Reviving Ryton’s Retail and High Street - I want to see a lively, welcoming high street again – with independent shops, cafés, and services that serve local people and attract visitors. I’ll work to support small businesses and bring life back into the heart of the village.

Investing in Infrastructure - With more people now living in Ryton, we need investment in transport, healthcare, schools, and other essential services. I’ll campaign for improvements that make life better for everyone – now and into the future.

Promoting Ryton’s Community Spirit - Ryton has always had a strong sense of community, and that’s our greatest strength. I’ll support local groups, community events, and initiatives that bring people together and keep that spirit alive. A connected, active community is the key to our future prosperity.

Ryton deserves a representative who listens, understands, and takes action. With your support, I’m ready to stand up for our village and help shape a better future for us all.

Activist Jack Muers

Email: hello@gatesheadlibdems.org.uk

I care deeply about our community. Our streets, our schools, our green spaces, our local businesses, and most importantly, the people who live in Ryton. I believe that real change starts at the level we can really make a difference. It’s not about the country as a whole and the things we see on the news all the time, but the things we see in our lives every day where we live.

I’ve lived in Ryton all of my life, and many of my friends joke that I’ll never leave. I probably won’t. Over my time, I’ve watched our town with pride, but also with concern. Whether it's the rising theft crimes, the lack of attractive investment opportunities, the need for more youth services, or the rising cost of living, we face real challenges. Let’s not forget though, we also have incredible potential. We are a community of hard workers, people who care about where they live, and neighbours who look out for one another. There’s no place in the world like Ryton, our beautiful town, but it’s not just the landscape that makes it beautiful, it’s the incredible people that live here.

I believe each one of those voices deserve to be heard - clearly and consistently. I want to bring your concerns to the table and make sure decisions aren’t just made about us, but with us. I want to make our local council more transparent, more responsive, and more in touch with the everyday realities we face. I’m not a career politician. I’m someone who lives here, and wants to make things better here.

Regularly meet with residents – and listen, not just talk - I’ll hold regular drop-ins, street surgeries, and attend community events so residents can raise concerns, share ideas, or just have a chat about local issues. But more importantly, I’ll be there to listen – not just deliver soundbites. Good representation starts with understanding what matters most to you, and I’ll make sure your voices shape the work I do and the priorities I push for on the council.

Work for safer streets, safer shops, and better local services - I’ll work with local police teams, neighbourhood groups, and council officers to make Ryton safer for everyone. That means tackling theft, anti-social behaviour, poor lighting, and neglected public spaces. I’ll also fight to protect and improve vital services – from transport and bin collections to health and housing – so that every part of Ryton gets the attention and investment it deserves.

Support initiatives that invest in young people – the next generation of caretakers of our town - Our young people need safe places to go, meaningful activities, and real opportunities. I’ll champion better youth services, sports and arts programmes, and work with local schools, clubs, and charities to create spaces where young people feel valued and supported. When we invest in them, we invest in Ryton’s future.

I also want your ideas, experiences and expectations to work better with you, and for you, connect with me today!