FORMER leader of the Green Party Natalie Bennett stopped off in Stourbridge to launch the party’s local election campaign.

Natalie, who was leader of the Greens from 2012 to 2016, visited the town’s Old Quarter on March 30 to back local candidates who will be vying for votes on May 4.

The party is fielding 20 Green candidates in the forthcoming election in the Dudley borough.

Natalie, who was nominated to the House of Lords as Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle in 2019 – one of only two Green Party peers, said: “It’s an exciting time for the Green Party – across the country, voters of all stripes are turning to the Greens because they see our hard work making a difference for local communities. We are expecting to make big gains once again this year.”

She added: “Once Greens are elected, voters like what they see and re-elect them again and again. We’re positive about our prospects to make this happen in Dudley.”

The Green Party’s campaign priorities include insulating homes and buildings to cut energy consumption and help with the cost of living, pushing water companies to clean up local rivers, and bringing common sense to ongoing discussions about balancing housing needs with protecting vital green space in the Black Country.

Local Green Party spokesperson Stephen Price said: “Whatever the results at the coming elections, because only one-third of seats will be contested, the Conservatives will stay in charge of Dudley Council.

“This election isn’t about deciding who is in charge – it’s about who will be the strongest voice for local communities.”

He added: “Elected Greens will always speak up for local people. Unlike other parties, we don’t have to toe the party line and aren’t told how to vote. If you elect a Green councillor, they really will be a voice working for you.”