Barnsley Central Labour MP Dan Jarvis has responded to the news that he has been recognised by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) as a 'Northern Champion'.

Jarvis said, "I am pleased that the IPPR have made me a ‘Northern champion’. We currently face very challenging times in towns and communities across the North of England. I am confident, however, that the huge amount of talent that I know exists, will ensure that our Northern towns and cities can continue to grow and prosper, despite the tough times we live in. I believe the North of England is a great place to live, work and raise a family and I’m proud to be considered worthy of being a ‘Northern Champion’.

“As an MP and Shadow Minister, who lives in South Yorkshire, I am also fortunate to have been able to spend time visiting a number of Northern towns and cities over the last year. I know – and my constituents would not let me forget – that there is a world away from the Westminster village. A world that is bursting with potential. The reality is that most people don’t live in London, and I believe politicians need to better recognise both the talents of those from the North and the challenges that the region faces.

“That is why over the last sixteen months, I have been working hard on a number of important key issues including the recent campaign to save The 3rd Battalion of The Yorkshire Regiment, the campaign against the wasteful reorganisation of the NHS which is costing Barnsley’s PCT almost £18million and what I consider to be an unacceptable reality that in 2012, in this country, elderly people will die each winter, simply because they cannot afford to heat their homes.

“Additionally I have been working with my local community, with businesses, schools and community groups, to raise aspiration amongst our young people through the ‘Proud of Barnsley’ campaign. I know that the work that people do in community of Barnsley is reflected in work underway across communities in the North of England.

“People in the North of England are identified throughout Britain as being proud of their history and optimistic about their futures. I intend to continue to visit communities across the North of England in order to share ideas and be inspired by their stories of local success, history and pride.

“The economic reality is that Northern towns too often find themselves first into a recession and last out. In tough times it is especially important that we remember our past, stay true to our values and champion the things we passionately believe in, and that above all, we remain proud to be of the North. As an IPPR Northern Champion, that is exactly what I intend to continue to do.”