UKIP SHORTLIST

Fuel protester on UKIP shortlist



Fuel protester Andrew Spence is one of three people shortlisted by the UK Independence Party to contest the forthcoming Hartlepool by-election.

Mr Spence, a County Durham farmer, was one of the leaders of 2000's fuel protests.

Stephen Allison, an independent Hartlepool councillor, and businesswoman Christine Williamson are also up for selection by the party.

Robert Kilroy-Silk has confirmed he is not seeking selection.

Mr Spence is the best known of the three candidates put forward for selection, having been one of the key figures behind 2000's fuel protests. He recently organised a slow-moving convoy in Newcastle city centre to demonstrate at high fuel costs.

Mrs Williamson fought City of Durham for UKIP in the 2001 general election, gaining 3% of the vote.

Mr Allison, is described by UKIP as a "former Labour supporter" and election agent for Tory candidate Gus Robinson.

The three candidates will be interviewed tomorrow, followed by a selection meeting at Hartlepool's Grand Hotel.

BBC NEWS