ConservativeHome's Seats & Candidates blog

Stephen Mosley selected for Chester

Local councillor Stephen Mosley was chosen instead of two outsiders in the final stage of selection today.

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Chester last three

Simon Baynes, Rebecca Harris and Stephen Mosley have got through to the final shortlist for this competitive candidacy.

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Adam Rickitt linked to Chester

Following Paul Offer's resignation as candidate for Chester the local newspaper, the Chester Chronicle, is linking Adam Rickitt (website here) to this highly marginal Conservative seat.  As a Cheshire local, friends of Adam Rickitt are reportedly saying that "he would love to have a stab at being selected by Chester Conservative Association."  Mr Rickitt told the Chronicle: "I cannot comment on an association matter at this time, but I know the Conservative Party in Chester is making great leaps forward."  The selection is unlikely to begin until after May's local elections.

The Chronicle also mentions former Lord Mayor Mike Jones, County Cllr Eveleigh Moore-Dutton and City Cllr Caroline Mosley as possible candidates.

Paul Offer resigns as Tory candidate for Chester

On Saturday I highlighted three constituency troublespots.  I posted on two of them yesterday - Plymouth Sutton and Westmorland & Lonsdale.  The third was Chester and I've just received an email from Paul Offer detailing why he has resigned as the party's candidate there.  You can read Paul's explanation for his resignation on his blog.

12.30pm update: There are threats of legal action because of what Paul has alleged and I have decided in the circumstances to take a very restrictive views of the comments I'll approve on this thread.