Prospective parliamentary candidates selected for North and South Swindon

10.58.00am GMT Mon 1st Feb 2010

Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidates Damon Hooton (South) & Jane Lock (North)

Liberal Democrats in Swindon have selected two highly experienced campaigners to stand for the party in Swindon at the General Election. At their selection meeting last Thursday, the party gave their overwhelming support to Damon Hooton (South Swindon ) and Jane Lock (North Swindon).

"I'm really looking forward to working with the local team here in Swindon and with Damon in South Swindon, said Jane, candidate for North Swindon. "There has been a surge in interest in the Lib Dems in Swindon. I understand that new members have been joining every week since Christmas - it's a really positive sign for our prospects in the coming elections."

Jane is a former County Councillor in Somerset for 14 years, where she served as Chair of Social Services, Deputy Leader of Council and Chair of Social Services. Currently, Jane runs her own small business, catering and supplying foods to the National Trust from home. She is a qualified cordon bleu cook and teaches young mums how to cook healthily at a local community centre.

Says Damon "I'm delighted to be working in Swindon again. I have happy memories of my time here when I was working for a local legal practice. It's great to be back with my political hat on!"

Damon had a 23 year career in the army serving in United Kingdom, and across the globe. During this time he lived for many years in various parts of Wiltshire. On leaving the military, Damon worked in property law for eight years including a period based in Swindon. He now works for a major national supermarket.

Damon has served on Mendip District Council since 2003 and as a Frome Town Councillor since 2007. He is a founder member of the Liberal Democrat Friends of the Armed Forces.