Helen Grant wows Maidstone and the Weald

It's been a tough few weeks for 9 candidates contesting to become PPC for Maidstone and the Weald, but finally their wait has come to an end. Today, MWCA voted for Helen Grant to succeed Ann Widdecombe as the parliamentary candidate.

All the contestants went through an intensive programme of interviews with exec members, QA sessions with members of the local community and businesses, and assessed canvassing. They also had to deliver at hustings held at Oakwood House, and answer questions put to them by Ian Hisplop from BBC's 'Have I Got News for You'.

Helen Grant is a great candidate, a wonderful person, and a safe pair of hands for Ann's legacy. She is bright, personable, and friendly. Throughout the selection process, she was the one candidate who took a particular interest in me, my background, and the job I was doing in Fant. Her knowledge of Maidstone & the Weald was impressive, and I couldn't but admire her life story. Growing up as a single mum in a tough estate, Helen surmounted the challenges thrust on her by studying law and later establishing her own successful firm. She is now happily married to Simon, who has supported her throughout the contest.

I look forward to introducing Helen to the residents of Fant over the next two years!

Evening Standard - 20th June 2006