SIR Mel Stride has been overwhelmingly re-selected by members of the Central Devon Conservative Association to stand as the Conservative candidate for Central Devon at the next General Election.

Association members gathered to vote on Sir Mel's candidacy, reaffirming their confidence in his leadership, experience, and record of service to one of England's largest and most rural constituencies.

Sir Mel has represented Central Devon since the constituency's creation in 2010 and currently serves as Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer under Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch.

During his parliamentary career, he has held several senior positions, including Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, Leader of the House of Commons, and Chair of the Treasury Select Committee.

Following his re-selection on Thursday, June 4, Mel said: “I am honoured and proud to have been re-selected to fight for Central Devon at the next General Election.

“Representing the people and communities of Central Devon has been the privilege of my life. I look forward to continuing to make the case for the priorities that matter to the people of this beautiful constituency.”

Chairman of the Central Devon Conservative Association, Mike Knuckey, welcomed the result, saying: “I am delighted that members of the Central Devon Conservative Association have voted to re-select Sir Mel as our candidate.

“Mel has been an outstanding Member of Parliament for Central Devon for more than 16-years, combining strong local representation with distinguished service at the highest levels of government.

“Our members are united, energised and ready to campaign for Mel's re-election.”

Central Devon covers more than 550 square miles, stretching from Okehampton and Hatherleigh in the west to Lapford and Chawleigh in the north, Silverton and Bradninch in the east, and Buckfastleigh in the south, including around half of Dartmoor National Park. Sir Mel has represented Central Devon in Parliament since the seat’s creation in 2010.