WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THE LAKES? It has to be its beautiful scenery.

Having been brought up in an industrial town, Bury, I really appreciate the idyllic surroundings I have on my doorstep. I also love Ambleside cricket ground - it must the most beautiful in the UK.

AND THE WORST? The parking. There are not enough spaces where locals can park on preferential terms.

FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE LAKES? The Scandale Valley just outside Ambleside. I used to go hound trailing up there – it’s the most beautiful valley with amazing acoustics. From the head of the valley, you can hear people talking as clear as anything from a mile and a half away.

FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT? Wilf’s Cafe at Staveley. We go there for family lunches and I can be a snazzy dresser in my best track suit bottoms!

FAVOURITE MEMORY One of my most endearing memories is helping to set up Ambleside Fell Rescue, which later joined with Langdale Fell Rescue to become the Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team. I’d always loved climbing and this was a way of giving something back.

WHAT ONE CHANGE WOULD YOU MAKE TO THE AREA? Affordable housing has to be something that needs addressing urgently. We also need to provide an array of jobs to keep young people and families in the Lakes.

SUM UP THE LAKES IN 5 WORDS Idyllic, peaceful, neighbourly, adventurous and relaxing.