By Jonathan Isaby
Yesterday the Labour Chief Whip moved the writ for the Barnsley Central by-election, meaning that it will take place on Thursday March 3rd - the same day as the referendum in Wales on giving more power to the Welsh Assembly.
The former MP for Barnsley Central, Eric Illsley, formally resigned his Commons seat on Tuesday in advance of his sentencing today for his offences relating to his claims for parliamentary expenses.
I revealed last week that Selby and Ainsty's Tory MP Nigel Adams will be managing the Conservative campaign in Barnsley Central and I hope to have news of our candidate very shortly.
> Today's Sun reports that David Cameron has asked ex-Yorkshire cricketer Darren Gough if he would consider being the Conservative candidate.
2pm update:
I can reveal that the Conservative candidate at the by-election will be James Hockney, who contested neighbouring Barnsley East at the general election last year.
The grandson of a coalminer, he is a 32-year-old businessman who is also a Trustee of the children’s charity, the Red Balloon Learner Centre, in South Yorkshire.
He said on his selection:
“It is a real privilege to be standing for Barnsley Central. Having previously campaigned in the seat just next door, I have got a real understanding of the issues and concerns of Barnsley’s residents and local businesses. If elected as the next MP for Barnsley Central I will passionately fight for jobs, investment and a brighter future for the community.”
I am told that the media speculation about Darren Gough being invited to stand as the Tory candidate was rather "blown out of proportion", not least because of his contractual obligations as a radio pundit - but I am reliably told that the former England cricket star will be hitting the campaign trail in support of James.
James will be out campaigning on Saturday and should you wish to assist, please email [email protected].
The new campaign centre is situated at The Coach House, Berneslai Close (Off Churchfield), Barnsley, S70 2BQ and is a little over half a mile away from Barnsley railway station.
