Tories launch by-election drive

Davena Rankin said she would listen to local concerns

The Conservatives have launched their campaign for the Glasgow East by-election on 24 July.

Scottish leader Annabel Goldie joined candidate Davena Rankin in the city's Parkhead area for the launch on Friday.

Ms Rankin said that as a Glaswegian she was ideally placed to listen to local concerns and ensure they were addressed at Westminster.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP David Marshall, on health grounds.

Labour currently holds a 13,507 majority over the SNP in Glasgow East.

The Liberal Democrats finished third in the 2005 general election with the Conservatives trailing in fourth with 1,096 votes.

I love this city, I was born in this city and I am angry at the decades of Labour neglect Davena Rankin Conservative candidate

Despite the seemingly uphill task facing Ms Rankin, she was upbeat about her chances.

She said: "I am delighted with the response I've had so far. Today we met non-voters and lifelong Labour voters who have pledged to vote Conservative.

"No-one will deny that it is a mountain to climb but I am offering every voter a clear choice - continuing with the failure of Labour, risking everything with the Nationalists or change with the Conservatives.

"I love this city, I was born in this city and I am angry at the decades of Labour neglect.

"A vote for me is a vote for someone who cares about Glasgow and who will use their experience of being a union representative to fight Glasgow's corner at every turn."

Other candidates declared include Glasgow councillor John Mason for the SNP, maths teacher Ian Robertson for the Liberal Democrats and former MSP Frances Curran for the Scottish Socialist Party.

Labour and Solidarity are due to announce their candidates on Friday.