Radio host 'could challenge Ken'

Mr Whale would offer a fresh political voice, UKIP says

Radio presenter James Whale could become the UK Independence Party's candidate for London mayor in 2008.

A party spokesman said the Talksport broadcaster would be an "extremely strong" challenger to the Labour incumbent, Ken Livingstone.

Mr Whale, 55, has said he will recruit advisers including club owner Peter Stringfellow, chef Jamie Oliver and author Lord Archer if elected.

UKIP gained two London Assembly seats in the 2004 elections.

'Direct opposite'

The party spokesman said: "If people want politicians who simply say the same things as other politicians, they can vote for Ken Livingstone or Steve Norris.

"For the rest of the people, they would have a candidate in James Whale who would be the direct opposite of that kind of politician."

In 2004, Mr Livingstone beat Mr Norris, for the Conservatives, into second place.

UKIP is expected to select its candidate for the 2008 mayoral election within the next few months.