THE Labour Party has launched its election campaign in York - with candidates promising to focus on the NHS and to improve living standards for residents.

Local candidates launched their campaigns in Exhibition Square at the weekend.

Among them was York Central parliamentary candidate Rachael Maskell, who will replace longstanding MP, Sir Hugh Bayley, and York Outer candidate Joe Riches.

They were joined by City of York Council Leader Dafydd Williams, other council candidates and Labour members and trade union activists from across the city.

Ms Maskell, an NHS physiotherapist, said "People across York have a clear choice at this election between a Tory-led government that will cut harder and faster, or Labour who will bring hope to families across York. We will address the cost of living crisis by raising the minimum wage, freezing energy bills and providing free childcare for three and four-year-olds.

"Labour will build the houses you need to buy and rent, and we will re-build our NHS, saving it from further fragmentation, privatisation and cuts.

"As an experienced campaigner, I will make sure that politics will be different in York from May where you will have a real voice in your future.”

Ms Maskell replaces Sir Hugh, who is standing down after 23 years as MP.

Her five main priorities are developing an economy which works for local people, a campaign to make sure the NHS is properly funded and integrated with social care, making York a safe and sustainable city, campaigning for a better standard of living and affordable housing and listening to people and acting on the policies that mean the most to local communities.

Cllr Williams said "I am delighted to launch our manifesto for a second term in York. We are campaigning to improve the living standards of working families, children and older people in York. We are pledging to deliver more housing, ensure cheaper greener energy for York people, and tackle anti-social behaviour issues like street drinking, dog mess and graffiti."