The Conservative Party's candidate for the Stretford and Urmston by-election was confirmed on Wednesday.

Emily Carter-Kandola is a communications professional who lives in Manchester and who studied in Salford.

After her selection was confirmed on Wednesday, Ms Carter-Kandola said she was 'delighted' in a post on social media.

If elected in the by-election on December 15, her political priorities are understood to be protection of the Green Belt and support for residents and businesses through the cost of living crisis.

She said: "I know housing is an issue that is affecting areas up and down the country including Stretford and Urmston. The rising demand and house prices in the constituency means that residents are having to move elsewhere to get on the housing ladder. 

"I would listen to residents and work with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to ensure Places for Everyone delivers the right types of homes in the right places, blocking any inappropriate development on our Green Belt."

She added: "It's also vital people are supported financially, especially at present. As the cost of living rises and energy bills increase, people are worried about paying their bills this winter. I would work to support residents and businesses to access the Government's support available and ensure the right services are in place.

"I am also a big supporter of small business. I would work to boost the local economy and make all areas of the constituency attractive for businesses to set up. This would generate more revenue for the local authority and provide employment opportunities."

READ MORE: Stretford and Urmston by-election – what, who, when, where, why?

Ms Carter-Kandola stressed it is 'time for a change' in Stretford and Urmston, which has been held by the Labour Party since the constituency's creation 25 years ago.

She said: "I know there are difficult times ahead for everyone, but it is now more important than ever to get on with delivering our manifesto and delivering for everyone in the constituency, which I believe only the Conservatives can do."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.