Shock change for UUP in East Londonderry

The decision was ratified by the UUP's Executive Committee at a special meeting on Friday. The party has chosen former Westminster candidate Lesley Macauley and Coleraine councillor David Harding to fight the Assembly election next May.

McClarty was elected to the Assembly back in 1998 and was the party's chief whip. Speaking after the Partymeeting, Lesley Macauley said:

"I am ready to take up the challenge, to work hard for the opportunity to represent all of the people in East Londonderry.

"My vision is for a constituency with a revived and thriving business sector providing jobs for everyone. I am also passionate about

developing this area as a world class tourist destination".

David Harding reacted to his selection , saying: " I am delighted that I have been selected as a candidate by the UUP to represent this constituency, and I look forward to meeting people on the campaign trail.

"I plan to be out and about listening to what people are saying especially on rural and other local issues".

The East Londonderry UUP Constituency Chairman Cllr Norman Hillis said: "We are delighted to have two fresh faces going forward

as candidates in our constituency.

"Next May there is an opportunity for the public to tell the DUP they've had enough of their double jobbing and cast their vote

for Lesley Macaulay and David Harding who will be full time representatives at Stormont fighting for local issues."