LABOUR has its sights set on taking the big prize at the county elections next month.
Party leader Alan Rhodes is hopeful of wresting control of the council back from the Tories after four years and believes his party is on course for victory on May 2..
He says: "We realise that times are hard for people and we are clear in where our priorities are and how we will support them the best we can.
"We can deliver in these tough times and we have a fantastic range of candidates, including women and young people, to truly represent the people of the county.
"The coalition has put in place policies that are harmful to people and that are hitting those in welfare, vulnerable people and the disabled, and it's not right. People are looking for an alternative to that."
The party launched a set of election pledges on Monday with deputy leader of the party, MP Harriet Harman.
Ms Harman said she hoped Labour could "restore confidence" to people in the county.
She added: "People need to know their councils have strong leadership and will be on their side in tough times – and this is what Labour is proposing here. We have a strong team who have a clear idea what is important to people – looking after the elderly, jobs and employment."
Labour has released a six-point plan aimed at winning voters' hearts and see the party into the seats of power at County Hall.
It includes making jobs, skills and training a priority, building extra care housing for elderly residents and putting 20mph speed limits outside schools.
Mr Rhodes said: "Not only have we looked at these plans and made sure they are financially viable and properly costed, but we have also developed these pledges on the back of speaking to people and finding out what they would like to see."
Conservative Reg Adair said: "Any penny that Labour say they are going to spend, the question has to be asked about where they will get it from?
"Finances are tight, so where will this extra money come from? Will they be putting up tax? It's something they need to tell us."
