HUMAN rights activist Ben Rogers is to fight the Labour-held Durham City seat for the Conservatives at the General Election.

Mr Rogers, a journalist and author was selected at a meeting of local party members.

The 30-year-old, who works for the international human rights organisation Christian Solidarity Worldwide, is also a trustee of several charities.

Mr Rogers lives and works in the London area, but his father grew up in the county, serving in the Durham Light Infantry in the Second World War.

He said: "I am looking forward to meeting parents, teachers, students, patients, doctors, nurses, business people, young and old, throughout the community.

"I will focus on accountability and responsibility. On a national level, that means fighting for a Conservative government which will deliver more police, school discipline, cleaner hospitals, lower taxes and controlled immigration.

"Locally, it means asking tough questions of the city council."

Mr Rogers will oppose two female candidates selected by the other main parties.

Roberta Blackman Woods was chosen by local Labour members earlier this year to replace MP Gerry Steinberg, who will stand down after four terms in office at the next General Election.

Carol Woods, the finance portfolio cabinet member on Durham City Council, will stand for a second time for the Liberal Democrats.