JAMES Airey has been re-selected as the Conservative’s prospective parliamentary candidate for the Westmorland and Lonsdale seat at the next General Election.

At last year’s General Election, Mr Airey slashed sitting Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron's majority from 8,949 to 777.

He was chosen by members of the Westmorland and Lonsdale Conservative Association at a selection meeting in Kendal last night.

Mr Airey was born at Helme Chase in Kendal, went to Queen Elizabeth School in Kirkby Lonsdale, and has built a twin career as a local farmer and politician. He lives in South Lakeland with his wife Caroline, who is a postwoman, and their son Owen.

Mr Airey, who is the Conservative group leader on Cumbria County Council, said: “It’s an honour to be selected again as the prospective parliamentary candidate for Westmorland and Lonsdale.

“We need better representation for better jobs prosperity, investment and services for our area. That means a new approach which puts people before politics and makes sure our voice is heard when the decisions affecting our area are taken.”

Alan Price, chairman of the Westmorland and Lonsdale Conservative Association, said: “We are delighted that James has been re-selected as our prospective parliamentary candidate for Westmorland and Lonsdale.

“His re-selection means local voters at the next election will have the chance to elect a strong local champion who will be in there, fighting for us, when the big decisions affecting our area are taken, not simply shouting from the side-lines.”