Euro MP to stand down

Nick Clegg says he will run for a Westminster seat

The East Midlands' first Liberal Democrat MEP Nick Clegg is standing down from his seat in the European Parliament.

Mr Clegg, who is attending the annual Liberal Democrat conference in Brighton, says he is tired of the "incessant travel" that goes with his post.

But he is not giving up his political ambitions, as he has decided to seek a seat in Westminster in the next election.

"As someone with a young family, I have found being in an airplane every few days very grinding," he told BBC News.

Huge momentum

"I have been very lucky as I have done most of the things I set out to do in the European Parliament," he said.

Mr Clegg said he wanted to add a bit of spice to his life by doing something different.

"Given the momentum that the party has built up over the past few months, it is an exciting time for Liberal Democrats."

Mr Clegg said he has decided to contest the Sheffield Hallam constituency - which is available after the sitting Liberal Democrat MP Richard Allan decided to step down.