Candidates announced in Croydon North by-election (From Streatham Guardian)

Labour candidates announced in Croydon North by-election

5:00pm Wednesday 24th October 2012 in News

Lambeth’s assembly member and council leader have both made the shortlist of Labour candidates hoping to stand for the Croydon North by-election.

The five-strong shortlist for the Labour nomination in the by-election comes after the death of MP Malcolm Wicks, 65, who had served the constituency since 1997.

It was announced today that Lambeth and Southwark London assembly member Val Shawcross and council leader Councillor Steve Reed were shortlisted for the Labour nomination.

The pair face competition from Croydon Councillor Louisa Woodley and Croydon born member of the National Policy Forum Simon Burgess.

Former Downing Street aide Faz Hakim is also hoping to win the most votes on November 3 when Labour party members living in Croydon North vote to choose their preferred candidate.

The successful candidate will then fight the election campaign against candidates from other political parties.

Earlier this week Ms Shawcross, who lives in Upper Norwood, said she felt she would like to go for the seat because of a strong connection to the area.

Ms Shawcross said: "It’s a seat where I am deeply connected with the community.

"I really feel that Croydon North is in need of some very strong advocacy."