Harding to run for MP in Foyle

Mr Harding will face tough opposition from the incumbent MP, the SDLP's Mark Durkan, Martina Anderson of Sinn Fin and Londonderry's Deputy Mayor, Alderman Maurice Devenney of the DUP.

A veterinary surgeon in Coleraine, councillor Harding was born in Carlisle.

After graduation from the University of Edinburgh, he worked for a short time in Scotland, before moving to Coleraine. He has been pratising in Coleraine now for over 25 years. David has been closely involved with animal welfare and was Veterinary Advisor to the USPCA for several years.

He is a member of the Kirk Session of Bushmills Presbyterian Church and is closely involved in the renovation of the church buildings and also a member of the choir.

He married local girl, Olive, and they have one son. After a short illness, Olive died at the age of 47 in November 2007.

His son has just started secondary education and David says that being a single parent is a ‘significant’ but ‘very rewarding’ challenge.