LABOUR’S Katie White has kicked off her first week as the new MP for Leeds North West with a series of visits and events across the constituency, having been formally sworn in at Westminster to represent “the best constituency in the country.”

White was elected to represent Leeds North West earlier this month, winning the seat with a majority of nearly 12,000 on a turnout of 70 per cent. The new constituency covers Adel and Wharfedale, Guiseley and Rawdon, Otley and Yeadon, and Horsforth.

In her first formal engagement as an MP, White attended the civic reception in Leeds to celebrate the life and achievements of rugby league legend and motor neurone disease (MND) campaigner Rob Burrow.

The former Leeds Rhinos star, who was diagnosed with the degenerative disease in 2019, passed away on 2 June at the age of 41. His family and approximately 180 guests attended the reception at Leeds Civic Hall, while thousands more watched the event online.

Over the weekend, White visited the Otley Common project to discuss planned proposals with award-winning Chartered Architect Stefanie Stead MBE. The local community project aims to bring the Otley Methodist Church into community ownership and raise a target of £571,700 in share capital.

White joined the Yeadon Carnival with councillor Eleanor Thompson, spoke with parents at Ralph Thoresby School summer fayre in Adel over pizza, and ended the weekend watching England in the Euros final at Hickory's Smokehouse in Adel.

Katie White said: “I’ve had a fantastic first week in the job and feel incredibly lucky to represent the best constituency in the country, Leeds North West. Our vibrant community spirit brings people together, whether it’s the drive of the Otley Common project or the brilliant teams behind the Yeadon Carnival or the Ralph Thoresby School’s fayre.

“I was particularly honoured to attend the commemoration event to celebrate the exceptional life of Leeds legend, campaigner, and Rhinos hero, Rob Burrow CBE. Rob was one of the country’s most inspiring athletes and campaigners, raising not only millions for those with motor neurone disease but also our collective awareness of how MND affects individuals and families across our country.

“Rob represents the best of our community. He was dedicated to improving the lives of others with an open heart and unparalleled dedication. He inspires so many of us, and his legacy will continue.”