A LONG-serving Labour councillor is to appeal after being rejected by a selection panel.

Michael Howarth, 70, of Bearpark, near Durham City, has served on Durham City Council for 16 years and still hopes to contest next May's elections.

The Labour Party has a new system of choosing council candidates to improve the calibre of candidates.

Part of the new selection process involves passing an interview by officials.

Last night, Councillor Howarth, who is vice-chairman of the council's community services scrutiny committee, confirmed that he had not been selected.

He said: "It's not absolute yet. I have lodged an appeal.

"I got some answers wrong. It's nowt nor summat. There are strange new rules about being a councillor, which I believe in.

"I can only put it down to my nerves.''

Labour Party regional director Chris Lennie said: "People are judged by their record, their age, their behaviour and their vision and commitment.

"If anyone has been left off a selection panel, they can appeal and that will be held by an independent body.

"If you are not re-instated at appeal, you will not be eligible to stand.

"I don't know the details of this case, but it wouldn't be the first time a sitting councillor has not been selected to stand.''