Campbell thanks election rivals

The East Londonderry MP said: "In the course of every election it is usually the case that various candidates indulge in attacks on the others in the contest.

“It is, however, most unusual when on separate occasions two candidates unwittingly praise another during the election race. In the course of the past week the other two Unionists standing against me have done just that and I would not wish the moment to pass without acknowledging this unusual event.

“The newcomer Lesley Macauley for the Unionists and Tories issued a statement attacking her own party's previous MP William Ross in connection with his voting record and in the course of doing so she also drew attention to my much better voting record.

“Mr. Ross who is now returning to the electoral fold since retiring nine years ago after 27 years as an MP issued a separate statement drawing attention to a leaflet I produced last year and which I have been distributing ever since regarding how people might be better informed regarding their entitlements.

“Leaving aside the fact that Mr Ross really should have known about this leaflet months ago and over 5,000 homes have received it since, but it is nonetheless gratifying that whether intentionally or not praise has been given to me in this venture.

“I am grateful for recommendations although I usually get them from those who would support me rather than those who are opposing me. I do plan to continue this work after May 6", added a somewhat bemused Mr Campbell.