Across the country there are many new parliamentary candidates who have local connections to their constituencies.

However, I think I might set a record when it comes to Bury South, where I am the Conservative candidate in the next general election.

One of the new boundary changes coming about mean that the ward I currently represent as a councillor on Salford City Council, Bury's next door neighbour, will become part of Bury South constituency.

This will mean that, taken together, my years living in Prestwich and my time living in Kersal add up to a total of 56 years! This may well be a record for someone standing for the first time in a constituency!

I attended both primary and secondary schools in the constituency. I celebrated my bar mitzvah and my wedding in what will now be Bury South.

I have worked in Bury South for more than 30 years- as a rabbi of a local synagogue and a chaplain in a care home.

I am used to public speaking as well as attending to people’s pastoral needs- particularly when they are at their most vulnerable.

It is this that brought me into the sharp end of politics. I believe I can help people with their problems as I have done all my career.

Bury Times: Arnie Saunders was selected as the Bury South Tory MP candidate by membersArnie Saunders was selected as the Bury South Tory MP candidate by members (Image: Conservatives)

Being local, I know many constituents personally and know the problems people face in their personal lives.

Having the “gift of the gab” will enable me to stand up for Bury South in Parliament. I will ensure Bury South continues to receive “levelling up” money from Westminster.

The government has already contributed significantly to the regeneration of Radcliffe.

This includes the new hub being built in the town centre and the new school being constructed.

I am especially passionate about the regeneration of my hometown Prestwich.

As a schoolboy, I took part in a competition to name what was to become the Longfield Suite. No- I did not win!

However, I did win - twice - the Alderman Baker Cup. This was a cycling competition run by the old Prestwich Council (before Prestwich became part of Bury Council) to promote safe cycling. I beat 120 children to win each time.

I was presented with the trophy at the Prestwich Town Hall by the mayor.

Sadly, Bury Council refused to keep it on. This decision can still be reversed! Thus, I am currently the reigning champion!