A NORTH Yorkshire county councillor has been chosen to stand as the Ukip candidate for Harrogate and Knaresborough at the next General Election.

David Simister, who was born and bred in Harrogate, owns and runs a public relations company in the town.

“Ukip has made huge grounds in the last few years, and I strongly believe we can win Harrogate and Knaresborough,” he said.

“It will take a lot of hard work, but I’m not afraid of that. I also have a great team behind me and the support of a large percentage of voters.”

Mr Simister replaces John Upex, who resigned as the party’s candidate – and local chairman – in February.