Harding named as Foyle UUP candidate

The Scottish born father-of-one is based in Portballintrae. The veterinarian previously stood as a candidate in the five seat East Londonderry constituency in 2005 but narrowly missed out on a seat despite having polled fifth on the first count.

His candidacy was announced after the UUP met at the weekend to ratify the remaining agreed Conservative and Unionist candidates for the forthcoming poll.

The party also announced Lesley McAuley - the Portstewart-based mother-of-two and former church youth worker - as its agreed candidate in East Londonderry.

Speaking on Saturday Chairman of the UUP, David Campbell, said: "Following today's meeting, we are delighted to announce that a further eight Conservative and Unionist candidates have been ratified and are now in the field.

"We are delighted to have a committed and dynamic line-up of candidates for the forthcoming Westminster election and, while the selection process is still ongoing, we anticipate that it will soon be brought to a conclusion.

"These individuals will, I have no doubt, prove a major asset to the Conservatives and Unionists campaign, dedicated as they are to making politics work for all members of the community.

"We are pledged to deliver effective and normal government that serves the interests of the people of Northern Ireland, and as such we are offering an opportunity to vote for people who will be part of a national government.

"We are committed to giving the electorate a chance to fully participate in the politics of the United Kingdom - no other local party offers this opportunity.

"Sitting as full-time members of Parliament - not double-jobbers - they will be committed to representing the Northern Ireland electorate in Westminster. Northern Ireland deserves no less."