Former Keighley MP Gary Waller is to attempt a political come back by running for the Shipley Conservative nomination.

The 54-year-old was defeated at the last election and recently told his constituency he would not fight it again.

But he is eager to do battle with Shipley MP Chris Leslie, who is half his age, saying: "It's in my blood after such a long time."

First he must overcome 13 other candidates being interviewed this weekend.

They include Bingley councillor Colin Gill, Bingley rural councillor Simon Cooke, Ken Hind, National chairman of the Conservative Candidates Association and Birkenshaw beef farmer Robert Light, who fought Halifax at the last election.

Mr Waller said: "It's going to take a great deal of time and effort to win Shipley back. I'm anticipating an election in 18 months' time and it's going to need a big commitment.

"I actually joined the Conservative party in Shipley a good many years ago and was urged to stand by a number of people.

"I'm a great believer in community politics and did a lot of work at the community level."

Coun Gill, 33, said: "As a local man I would be honoured to represent my friends and neighbours at a national level.

"The Shipley constituency is a very diverse area but there are certain common themes. People want decent education, decent social services and a future for the district."

Coun Cooke said: "I believe I have the first class skills necessary to do the job."

Mr Light, 35, who was born in Thackley, said: "The key issue is making sure that the concerns of Shipley people are well represented in Parliament and the areas needs listened to."

The 14 candidates will be whittled down to five or six for a shortlist for a special general meeting of the Shipley Conservative Association.

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