THE Green Party have selected Gavin Hawkton as its candidate for Carlisle at the next general election.

Speaking after his selection, Gavin said: “I’m delighted to have the backing of members and I’m looking forward to providing voters with a genuine alternative at the next general election.

“Whether it’s the broken pledges by Keir Starmer or a Conservative Party embroiled in scandal after scandal, people feel let down by the main political parties and want a fresh approach.

“The North-South divide grows year on year and the fantasy of ‘levelling up’ needs to be challenged. Genuine investment in a Green New Deal to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and create thousands of jobs is the positive vision I want to set out," he said.

The Green Party is on the rise after making record gains at the local elections in May.

READ MORE: Carlisle's Green Party criticises EA's permit for incinerator plans

Gavin said the approach of tackling the interconnected issues of environmental, economic and social injustices is one that resonates with voters and is crucial to securing a positive future for future generations.

“We need a party that seeks to improve society for the benefit of all, not just a small elite, I’m looking forward to getting out on the streets putting the Green case across” he said.

All members of the Carlisle Green Party were free to stand before deciding between candidates in an internal ballot.

Tom Adams, chair of the Carlisle Greens said: “The party is going from strength to strength and it's very encouraging to see the talent emerging from within the party” adding “Gavin will be a strong voice for Carlisle”.

In February, Labour members in Carlisle selected Julie Minns to represent the constituency.

Sitting Carlisle MP John Stevenson has also been reselected as the Conservative candidate for his constituency. 

The Lib Dems are set to make their announcement soon.