THE Liberal Democrat party formally adopted Reeten Banerji as their candidate for the election at rally in Chippenham on Saturday attended by former leader Paddy Ashdown.

The rally and day of action was attended by activists from across the county and kick started the election campaign for the Lib Dems.

Lord Ashdown, director of the national campaign, formally adopted all five Wiltshire Liberal Democrat candidates, spoke on how the Liberal Democrats are fiercely holding the centre ground.

Mr Banerji said: "Our message of maintaining fairness in our society while reducing the deficit is a strong one given the experiences of coalition government.

"The Conservatives are unwilling to stand up for the poor and the vulnerable as they make hash cuts to public services, our police and schools.

"Only the Liberal Democrats are providing a strong economy and a fair society, creating opportunity for everyone.

"The NHS has asked politicians for £8bn a year, to do their jobs in the way they want. I am proud that only the Liberal Democrats have committed ourselves to meet the funding for our NHS, this constituency’s biggest employer."