Liberal Democrats select Tom Papworth for Crystal Palace

9.15.07pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 2nd Aug 2007

Local campaigner Tom Papworth has been selected to fight the Crystal Palace ward by-election.

The by-election arises after the sad death of the long-standing Liberal Democrat councillor, Chris Gaster. Chris had represented the people of Anerley and Crystal Palace for 35 years and was a very popular local champion.

Tom Papworth said "It is an honour to be selected to campaign for Crystal Palace and Anerley."

"Over the years Chris and his Liberal Democrat colleagues have shown their commitment to serving the local community. I share that commitment because it is my community too."

"I live in Anerley, work in Bromley and go out in Crystal Palace and Beckenham, and I want to make this area better for all of us who live here."

Liberal Democrats from across Bromley and neighbouring boroughs have been campaigning hard to win the election.

Lib Dem Crystal Palace Councillor John Canvin said "Though the Lib Dems have held the seat for many years, we are taking nothing for granted. We have already delivered a survey across the ward, asking for people's views of local services. We have always listened to the people of Crystal Palace because being a councillor is about serving the local community."