A political party is hoping grey power will help it cause the biggest election upset in history.

The newly-formed Senior Citizens' Party launched its election campaign in Tony Blair's Sedgefield constituency yesterday.

Former Fleet Street journalist Terry Pattinson announced he would be taking on the Prime Minister in the next General Election, which the party believes will be held on May 5 next year.

Members hope to take advantage of the ageing population and growing disillusion with the main political parties.

But they also hopes to win over younger voters - the pensioners of tomorrow - concerned about pensions, rising house prices and tuition fees.

Speaking in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, yesterday, an upbeat Mr Pattinson said: "I'm here to ask for the biggest protest vote that's probably ever been seen in political history.

"I really believe that I can win. I'm not a self-delusionist, I know it's an uphill struggle and I'm going into the lion's den but I think I'm pushing at an open door."

Mr Pattinson, 61, who was born in Gateshead, is a member of the Labour Party. He fully expects to be expelled before the next General Election.

He said: I'm going to have fun, I'm going to enjoy myself and I expect to make a little bit of history once the election starts.

"We are the rock and roll generation, I like to think we are the nice people's party and we'll rock and roll our way to power one day."

To form a branch of the Senior Citizens' Party call (01932) 874303, or log on to www.senior-citizens-party.org.uk