About Luke
Luke is a dynamic entrepreneur, politician, and community leader from Bishop Auckland, County Durham. Balancing a career in both public service and business, Luke has built a reputation as a driven, results-focused figure committed to making a real difference locally and nationally.
Luke was born at Bishop Auckland General Hospital in January 2003 and raised in Wolsingham in Weardale, at the heart of County Durham. Growing up in the Durham Dales instilled in him a deep connection to the region, its communities, and its traditions. Later, Luke lived in Coxhoe, on the outskirts of Durham City, before returning home to Bishop Auckland, where he now lives with his partner Georgia.
Education played a central role in shaping Luke’s outlook. He attended New College Durham, where he studied Law, Politics, and History, laying the foundations for both his political career and his wider interest in policy, governance, and community leadership. His studies gave him a strong understanding of how decisions are made, how institutions work, and how history shapes the challenges of today.
Luke served as a Conservative Durham County Councillor from 2021 until 2024 and stood for election to be the Member of Parliament for City of Durham in 2024. Throughout his political career, Luke has championed policies that protect pensioners, support low-income households, and create opportunity through reindustrialisation in the North East. He is known for his energetic campaigning, his ability to connect with residents, and his record of delivering practical solutions—from tackling antisocial behaviour to securing investment for local infrastructure.
Previously, Luke served as Chief of Staff to a HM Treasury Minister and Government Whip in the House of Commons. His experience at the heart of government gives him unique insight into policy, strategy, and how to get things done.
Alongside politics, Luke is the Founder and Chairman of the Holdham Rail Solutions Group, which includes Excursions By Rail, Bishop Trains, and Holdham Rail. These businesses combine heritage with innovation, delivering unique rail experiences across the UK, operating ticket offices, and providing station services.
Under his leadership, Excursions By Rail has delivered sell-out rail experiences such as the Edinburgh Express and the Taylor Train, attracting passengers from around the world. His companies are also known for supporting community initiatives, funding youth programmes, and creating new jobs in the region.
Luke’s leadership has been recognised nationally. He was named a finalist in the Rising Star category at the prestigious North East Business Awards, highlighting his impact as one of the region’s most exciting business leaders. He was also shortlisted as one of Europe’s top young CEOs, reflecting his ability to blend commercial success with vision, innovation, and community purpose.