Local Nurse Christine Allison and Downham resident Andrew Lee have been chosen to fight the Downham by-election, which is expected on 19th February.

Christine is a Nurse at a Lewisham medical practice and an experienced local campaigner. She was a candidate in the local elections in 2006, coming within 80 votes of winning her council seat and has been part of Downham's Conservative Action Team for the last 18 months.

Andrew Lee is a long time local resident who has lived in the area for over 50 years. An experienced campaigner he attended St. John the Baptist Primary School and has been a Governor of Downderry School for over 25 years. Andrew is Chairman of Downham Conservatives.

Andrew commented: "It is a real privilege to be selected to stand for Downham Ward. I have lived in the area for over 50 years look forward to meeting many old friends on the campaign trail.

Boris Johnson won Downham Ward in last year's Mayoral election in a clear rejection of both Labour and the Lib Dems, proving in the process that Conservatives can win in Downham Ward.

This by-election gives the people of Downham the chance to end years of neglect under both Labour and the Lib Dems by electing an experienced team of Conservative Campaigners.''

London Mayoral result: Downham Ward

Conservatives:    1,178

Labour:                  856

Lib Dem:                377