Leela jumps in for Poole seat

Feb 8 2008 By Emma Cullwick

YOUNG legal eagle Leela Widger is aiming for the top after being named as a general election candidate at just 23.

The trainee barrister is already experiencing the cut and thrust of politics as a Solihull councillor.

But now Leela has been picked to contest Poole in Dorset for the Liberal Democrats at the next general election.

And she said she would not desert her Solihull ward of Silhill if she clinched a seat at Westminster.

"Many MPs continue to be councillors and also have the added burden of keeping a family and running a household, a pressure I don't have," she said.

"My work will continue here in Solihull and I will be committed to that."

Poole is not considered a key seat by the Lib Dems but Leela said she believed she could win as the party was gaining support at a local level.

"The party is very strong and I'm honoured to present them," she said.

She said she was also inspired by Solihull MP Lorely Burt, also a Liberal Democrat.

"Lorely is a passionate and dedicated MP who works really hard for the people of Solihull," she said.

"She is an excellent role model. Leela added: "I put myself forward for Poole because I see my future in politics and I want to see positive change in this country."

Leela sent shockwaves across Solihull when she ousted Tory stalwart Peter Hogarth in Silhill in local elections last May.

She put her career as a trainee barrister on hold after winning the seat by just over 100 votes.