Lewisham Labour has selected Jack Lavery as its candidate for Sydenham in the upcoming by-election in May.

Councillor Tom Copley stepped down earlier this year after becoming Deputy Mayor for Housing.

Mr Lavery, an economics teacher and school governor, said he hopes to use his experience as an educator and of living in Lewisham’s private rented sector if elected.

“I am looking forward to working hard on behalf of everyone living in Sydenham.

“Lewisham Council is doing a huge amount of work in improving education attainment and opportunities.

“If elected, I hope I can bring my experience as a teacher and school governor into the role.

“I also want to advocate for the thousands who are living in the private rented sector, like myself, and help deliver more council housing across the borough.

“Sydenham has such a wonderful sense of community and I am eager, as soon as it is safe, to get on the doorstep, speak with local residents and earn their trust,” he said.

The deputy mayor of the council and Sydenham Cllr Chris Best has backed the selection

“Both myself and Cllr Liam Curran are delighted Sydenham Labour Party has selected Jack to be our candidate.

“I  have been very impressed with his hard work and I know that, if elected, he will be a fantastic councillor for Sydenham and an asset to the council,” she said.

Lewisham Conservatives selected Helena Croft as their candidate.

See related: Conservative candidate selected for Sydenham by-election