A former Tory minister who has joined the Reform UK party wants to be Greater Lincolnshire Mayor
A former minister from Boris Johnson’s government, who has previous ties to Freshney Place in Grimsby, has emerged as a candidate for the mayor of Greater Lincolnshire.
On May 1, voters will head to the polls to elect the inaugural mayor for the newly combined mayoral authority, encompassing North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire. Dame Andrea Jenkyns started her career working at New Look in Freshney Place before transitioning into a role as a music teacher and even became a finalist in the Miss UK competition.
In November this year, she joined the Reform UK Party. Previously, she served as the MP for Morley and Outwood in West Yorkshire and was a Lincolnshire County Councillor for the Conservatives.
Andrea Jenkyns said: “With fierce determination, I am stepping forward to become your next Mayor. This great county, from the Humber to Boston, from Grimsby’s docks to the rolling Wolds, has shaped, inspired, and motivated me to once again serve its people.”
“I know every inch of Lincolnshire. Moving from Yorkshire to South Humberside as a child, I grew up in places like New Holland, Healing, and East Halton. I attended Grimsby College and the University of Lincoln and taught music to young minds in Mablethorpe, Horncastle, Spalding, and Boston.”
“My experiences here connect deeply with its heritage, from the fishing industry—like my grandfather Walter’s legacy as a fisherman—to its robust industries.”
Dame Andrea Jenkyns Wants To Be Great Lincolnshire Mayor
Dame Andrea has also served as a Lincolnshire County Councillor for the Boston area, worked as a local music tutor, business leader, and spent nine years as a Conservative MP. She proudly recalls unseating the Labour Shadow Chancellor, Ed Balls, in the 2015 General Election.
As a current member of Reform UK, she aims to channel her experience, passion, and pragmatism into leading Greater Lincolnshire.
She said, “This county doesn’t need platitudes; it needs action. I will eliminate waste, cut taxes, and ensure taxpayers’ money delivers tangible results. No more unnecessary spending on diversity roles.”
“Let’s focus on fixing potholes and constructing durable roads. I’ll champion energy security and cost-effective solutions, moving Lincolnshire forward from Labour’s net-zero ambitions. We’ll focus on investing in skills, infrastructure, and industry to secure our economic future, ensuring our young talent remains here rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere.”
