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Boro chairman Steve Gibson has publicly declared his support for Conservative James Wharton in a letter posted to residents in Stockton.

Steve Gibson OBE openly declared his support for Mr Wharton, the Conservative MP for Stockton South, in a letter which has been posted to the homes of many residents in Stockton South.

As a former Labour Councillor, Mr Gibson’s support for the Conservative candidate may come as a shock to some - especially as the pair have a colourful history of exchanges.

In October 2015 the Boro chairman - furious at the Government’s handling of the SSI collapse - dubbed the Stockton South MP a “clown” for his “lack of action”.

But seven months later, a joint visit the Ingleby Manor Free School, the chairman and the Conservative had clearly buried the hatchet.

Titled “A message from Steve Gibson”, the letter sent to residents in Stockton South reads: “Teesside is a great place. I am proud of our area and our community. I am also proud of Middlesbrough Football Club.

“Through ups and downs I know so many people share my passion for the Boro and want to see it succeed. And it will.

“I also want Teesside to succeed. I have invested here and stay here because it’s my home.

“If our area is to do well we need the right people to represent us and to fight for us.

“I was once a Labour Councillor. Now I am not a member of any political party, but I do support people who care and who do the right thing.

“I am writing to you because I am supporting James Wharton to be your MP and to represent our area.

“I have got to know James well, and I know he cares about Teesside. I know he does what he thinks is right and puts our community first.

“I have seen how he can access government and make the case for Teesside, and I have seen the difference this makes.

(Image: Twitter)

“Teesside has always been Labour in the past. It is good to have a spread of political representation and a voice in Theresa May’s Conservative Government.

“James is the right person to do that , and I hope he can continue his good work.

“The Government elected on June 8 will negotiate Brexit. Teesside needs its voice on the inside, someone who can ensure our area is not forgotten. James was the only Teesside MP to vote leave in last year’s referendum.

“Whatever you think of the result, we all now need Brexit to be a success.

“When you come out to vote on June 8, it is up to you who you want as your MP. I hope you will support James, who I will work with to ensure Teesside gets the best deal possible.

"Yours faithfully, Steve Gibson.”

Speaking to The Gazette this morning, Mr Wharton said he was delighted to have received such an open and clear declaration of support from Mr Gibson.

He said: “I’m delighted that Steve Gibson has offered me his support in this election and in such clear terms.

“Steve and I have not always got on, but we have got to know each other and I very much enjoy working with him.

“There is much still to do and I look forward to continuing that relationship in the future.”

The Gazette contacted Mr Gibson who said he had nothing further to add to the statement.