THURROCK MP Dame Jackie Doyle-Price has spoken of her pride in representing the borough for the past 15 years and she is looking forward to seeking a fifth term in office when via the forthcoming general election, which Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced yesterday (Wednesday, 22 May) will take place on Thursday, 4 July.

Dame Jackie told Thurrock Nub News: "It has been the privilege of my life to serve as a Member of Parliament for the last fourteen years and to use my voice to fight on behalf of the people of Thurrock. 

"Over the coming weeks I will be seeking residents' support for a fifth time.

"I am proud at what I have been able to deliver so far. 

"We have new schools across Thurrock thanks to our free school programme. I am especially proud to have brought Harris academies to Thurrock and secured the delivery of Harris Mayflower and Harris Riverside.

"The A13 widening at J30 has been delivered along with an extension to the residents' discount at the Dartford crossing. 

"We have a new diagnostic centre being delivered in Grays. 

"Thames Freeport confirms Thurrock's status as the ports capital of the UK. 

"And I am especially excited by the ongoing investment plans we are delivering in Grays and Tilbury. Our communities will be reconnected to the Thames with new facilities and we will be delivering the best possible facilities for our young people through the new youthzone. 

"But there is much more to do. 

"Our local NHS needs to be held to account to deliver the services we deserve. 

"East facing slips at the A13 will be transformational to our road network and must be delivered. 

"I have a track record of being an outspoken advocate for what I believe is right. 

"The people of Thurrock need a strong voice now more than ever and I hope to persuade them to put their trust in me again."