[1] The ward is one of 21 in the Wakefield district, and has been held by Labour since the current boundaries were formed for the 2004 Council election.

[1][2] The ward is situated in the north of the District and incorporates central Castleford, Wheldon Road and Lock Lane, Glasshoughton, Redhill (part), Smawthorne Estate, The Maltkilns, the Potteries and the Healdfield area.

[4] Jeffery is currently the Leader of Wakefield Council, after her predecessor Peter Box CBE stood down after 21 years in the position.

[5] Notable former councillors for this ward include former West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson.

[6] This by-election was caused by the resignation of Mark Burns-Williamson as he successfully ran to be West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner.