“I am thrilled to have Craig as the new candidate for South Thanet who will be determined to campaign hard for what we need locally. He is experienced in business and has played a major role in Kent politics for many years.

“We are going to work hard together to ensure a Conservative victory in the next year and I am sure that the residents of South Thanet will see him as a hard worker and experienced in dealing with the complexities of our area.”

“After having the disappointing and upsetting news last year that Laura Sandys would not be going forward for re election as our MP at the General Election 2015, I could not imagine that we would be able to find another Candidate that would be able to replace such a hard working conscientious person to represent us in Westminster.

“I am therefore so pleased that we have selected Craig Mackinlay, a very worthy successor, who since his selection has shown how committed he is to South Thanet, his energy and zest for getting involved in all aspects of the community are proving that he thoroughly deserves to become our next Parliamentary representative, I am really looking forward to him carrying on the good work that his predecessor has achieved.”