Richard Royal, Political Consultant, former Parliamentary Candidate, Swimmer

I am an award-winning public affairs, communications and policy professional with nearly two decades' experience of working across challenging sectors within multinational companies, trade bodies and agencies as well as within Parliament, national & local government.

Among the sectors that I have specialised experience in are renewable energy; transport fuels; planning & licensing; food & drink; betting & gaming; and pharmaceuticals & medical devices.

I have been active in politics since the mid-1990s and was honoured to stand as a Parliamentary Candidate in Hartlepool at the 2015 General Election, having previously been a council election candidate, press and communications manager for a current Member of Parliament and the campaign manager for a current Government Minister at a previous General Election.

I am also a competitive open water swimmer, hold three current world records and have represented Great Britain at the World & European Masters Swimming Championships. In 2018 I was knighted by the world's smallest micronation, the Principality of Sealand, after becoming the first person to swim from there to the UK mainland. I have helped to raise over £20,000 for charity through my love of swimming. I have also previously worked as a lifeguard and swimming teacher.

I am a proud Northerner, currently living in East Yorkshire - near where I was raised - after thirteen years building my experience in London. I studied History & Politics at Lancaster University and hold a masters degree in Defence & Security Analysis from the university's Institute of Strategic Studies.

Please feel free to contact me using the form below, or follow me online using the links below.