THE Conservative Party is seeking a new prospective parliamentary candidate for the Forest of Dean constituency following the decision by former MP Paul Marland to stand down.

Mr Marland made it clear after losing his seat in the last election that he did not intend to stand again and would be pursuing other interests.

To start the process of selecting a new candidate the Forest of Dean Conservative Association is calling for applications.

The closing date will be November 16 and then applicants will be interviewed by a selection committee over the next few weeks to draw up a shortlist.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a special general meeting of all association members of more than three months' standing to be held on December 17.