JACQUI Smith, 42, is a former Redditch Councillor and economics teacher at Arrow Vale High School.

She was elected as MP for Redditch in 1997 and re-elected in 2001.

She served on the Commons treasury select committee before being appointed school standards minister.

Since then, she has also been a health minister and most recently minister for industry and the regions and deputy minister for women and equality.

She lives in Redditch with her husband Richard and two sons.

Ms Smith says: "I've spent all my married life in Redditch, my boys were born at the Alex and are now at local schools.

''It is, therefore, a real honour to serve as MP for my home town.

''I'm proud of what we've achieved in Redditch since I was elected in 1997. Local families tell me they're better off, with the lowest inflation and mortgage rates for a generation and help from Labour's tax credits.

''We've seen the difference new buildings and services are making at the Alex.

''Across the town, our school results are better. More people are in secure jobs. Free bus passes are back. There are more police officers and they have new powers to crack down on yobs.

''Labour's stable economy is taking Redditch forward and making a difference for all of us who live here.

"I've worked hard to speak up for local people and to stand up for Redditch and I want to carry on making our town a good place to live.''