WYRE Forest’s Conservative MP Mark Garnier has been chosen as his party’s candidate for the next general election.

Mr Garnier will defend his seat at the election, expected to take place on May 7, 2015, after being selected at a meeting of the Wyre Forest Conservative Association last Friday.

He won his seat in Parliament at the 2010 general election by more than 2,500 votes, ousting former constituency MP Dr Richard Taylor, who has already announced he will run again for Independent Community and Health Concern.

He also stood for the Tories in Wyre Forest at the 2005 general election when he missed out on winning the seat by more than 5,000 votes.

Mr Garnier said: “It has been 10 years since I was first selected to represent Wyre Forest for the Conservatives. It has been an immense privilege for me and one I am delighted will continue up to and, I hope, beyond the next election.

“Since winning the election in 2010, I have worked hard across a wide range of issues, giving Wyre Forest as loud a voice as I can in Westminster.

“My re-adoption gives me the opportunity to continue my work to bring more jobs locally, help promote a higher weekly wage and to support local economic development.”

Conservative Wyre Forest District Council leader, councillor John Campion, added: “Mark has been a significant resource for the district council in Westminster, championing the cause of the local area and providing much needed support for us at the heart of Government.

“It is important for the district to have an MP who punches above his weight and carries respect in Westminster, Mark Garnier is that man.”

Wyre Forest Conservative Association chairman James Dudley said Mr Garnier had “successfully widened the local political debate from the single issue of the hospital to the local economy, support for local industries, job creation and the local community”.