So he supported a local MP who was well thought of within the Tory party and the 'Northern Powerhouse' fella and a local Mayor. I can see why he would do both. As I said, there is a difference in making a donation to a local politician, who may have a very good specific policy worth supporting, or the ear of people who can help the town and club he loves. It must be worth trying a little dosh, it worked for the Russians by the looks of it.
He may be a full on Tory now, but this isn't really good evidence, especially given his roots, his recent scathing criticism of them over SSI and his backing of Sue Jeffrey for mayor not so long ago. It strikes me that he is either individually impressed with Wharton and Houchen and some of their local plans, or simply playing some clever politics himself and working with the people he needs to with a bit of mutual back scratching. It is a Conservative Government for 4 more years at least.
What is clear, the Conservatives are very big on helping each other and those who help them. Maybe this will benefit the region. Opposing them has certainly led to some pretty brutal repercussions when they have managed to get themselves back in power.
So, other than two local instances, is there anything else?