I wouldn’t be an MP without the incredible teachers who believed in me when I was growing up

Chris Webb MP has paid tribute to a former teacher who he says played a crucial role in helping him become an MP for Blackpool South.

Mr Webb reflected on the influence of his teachers at St Mary’s after taking a few days off earlier this week to catch up with old friends, including his former teacher Stephen Conway. “It’s no exaggeration to say that I wouldn’t be a Member of Parliament today without Stephen and some of the incredible teachers who believed in me when I was growing up,” said Mr Webb.

He also paid tribute to Stephen, Ken, Stephen T and others at St Mary’s, saying they had played a role in shaping his future by encouraging and guiding him during his school years. “[They] didn’t just teach, they encouraged me, guided me and saw potential in me at times when I probably didn’t see it in myself,” he said.

Mr Webb said the impact teachers can have on young people can extend far beyond the classroom, adding that he would always be grateful for the difference his teachers made to his life. “Teachers can have an extraordinary impact on the direction a young person’s life takes, and I’ll always be grateful for the difference they made to mine,” he said.

The MP said it was particularly special to reconnect with Mr Conway, reminisce about their time at St Mary’s and share a meal at Le Sorelle Restaurant on Squires Gate Lane. His reflection comes as he looks back on the journey from being a pupil at St Mary’s to representing his hometown in Parliament.

“From a pupil at St Mary’s to representing my hometown in Parliament - some people are part of your journey long before you realise just how important they’ll be,” said Mr Webb.