HEALTH Concern chiefs have announced they will not be contesting the Wyre Forest parliamentary seat in the forthcoming election.

Former district MP Dr Richard Taylor MBE and party chairman Linda Candlin, who also sits on Bewdley Town Council said they wanted to concentrate on local issues instead.

The Independent Community and Health Concern party shook up the political landscape in Wyre Forest when Dr Taylor won the seat in 2001, campaigning primarily on the issue of bringing back A&E services to Kidderminster Hospital.

But they said to fight a parliamentary campaign at a time there are so many problems across Wyre Forest and Worcestershire would be counterproductive.

Councillor Candlin said: “We realise that there is a big decision for the Country to make but our Councillors and Candidates for the May County Election will not allow the Snap General Election to distract us from the ongoing challenges which face our area.

“The new County Council in May must hit the ground running if we are going to commence the task of improving the daily life of our residents.

“Social care, health, our environment, highways and children’s services need immediate attention from our county councillors, we don’t want to be diverted by fighting a National Campaign at this time.”

Dr Taylor, who is life president of the party, said: “We are a local political party made up of Wyre Forest people who care about the local community and all relevant issues.

“We have never had responsibilities to a national political party and no whip to stifle individual beliefs and initiatives.

“We are effective at covering local issues and this is where our interests lie. It would therefore be a nonsense to divert our attention to campaigning for a member of parliament at this time. Our representatives only seek election to support our community.”

He added: “We were founded 18 years ago on the back of hospital problems, we retain a special interest in health issues and above all we believe in a patient driven health service.

“There are many other local challenges and improvements in Services needed, which impact on the well-being of our whole community and these are our current focus.

“As the ICHC spokesperson for Health Matters I am delighted to be able to work with ICHC colleagues who have a range of expertise and experience across the other services. We have an effective team who can respond to the needs of our community.”