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Gloucester Labour activists have chosen a candidate to challenge Conservative MP Richard Graham at the next General Election.

Former Newent Community School pupil Fran Boait was selected from a shortlist of four yesterday to be Labour’s candidate for the city seat which has been held by Mr Graham since 2010.

The Cambridge graduate, who grew up in Tibberton is the executive director of Positive Money which campaigns for a fair, democratic and sustainable financial system.

"It's a huge privilege to have been voted by Gloucester Labour to stand in my home city in the next General Election," she said.

"People across Gloucester feel held back. We have seen huge amounts of money spent on Gloucester’s regeneration projects, but nothing spent in the communities that are struggling the most. The Tory cuts have deepened inequalities across the city further.

"Gloucester needs a Labour government, to protect our NHS, tackle the housing crisis, and bring investment and high skilled jobs back to our city. We are ready to campaign to win Gloucester back for the people."

Gloucester Labour posted on Facebook: “Congratulations to all our fantastic shortlist for prospective parliamentary candidate for Gloucester. There can however only be one and we are delighted to announce that Fran Boait will be leading Gloucester into the next General Election. Congratulations Fran and here's to delivering a Gloucester for the many and not the few.”

She was selected after a hustings at Ribston Hall High School in Gloucester, ahead of three hopefuls Stroud District Council deputy leader Doina Cornell, former Gloucestershire County Council member for Tuffley Tracy Millard and Gloucester City Council member for Podsmead, Deborah Smith.

(Image: Gloucester Labour)

Party candidate for the city in the 2017 General Election, Barry Kirby, did not stand this time.

Ms Boait is the daughter of former Liberal Democrat depity leader of Gloucestershire County Council Liz Clarke, who also stood for Parliament, in the 1992 General Election to represent the West Gloucestershire seat.