Loraine Birchall has been selected as the new Liberal Democrat candidate for Cumbria’s police and crime commissioner election in May.
Loraine has replaced Mark Christie who has stepped down due to family health reasons.
Loraine has lived in Cumbria for more than 40 years. She has an in-depth understanding of the local police, as her father, brother and former husband have all served as special constables for Cumbria police.
Prior to her current work as a web developer and management consultant, Loraine worked at BAE Systems in Barrow, and she also serves as a tenant board member for South Lakes Housing – the largest housing association in South Lakeland.
Loraine stood as the Liberal Democrat candidate at the last police and crime commissioner elections in 2016.
Loraine’s top priorities are more visible community policing with a named officer for every ward, a dedicated rural crime unit to tackle farm theft and wildlife crime, and to set up a Youth Investment Fund to help develop youth services in Cumbria.
Loraine said: “I’m sad to see Mark withdraw but I’m honoured to be able to take his place as the Lib Dem candidate for Cumbria’s police and crime commissioner.
“For too long, Conservative Government promises of more police in Cumbria haven’t led to the officer numbers we need. As a result, our local communities feel left behind, with no-one to tackle rural crime or anti-social behaviour.
“I’m determined to fight tooth and nail for Cumbria and to keep our communities safe.”
Cumbria’s Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron said: “I want to send my best wishes to Mark and his family.
“I know that Loraine has the knowledge, the commitment and the fight to make a fantastic Police and Crime Commissioner who will hold police bosses to account, and fight to make sure we have the officers we need on the ground.”
The election will take place on May 6.
