Yesterday's blog and subsequent story in the Echo about Roger Baker putting himself in line to be Labour's candidate for Darlington at the next general election has generated quite a bit of interest.

Mr Baker is the Labour Party's head of press and communications and has family links to Darlington.

Mike Barker, the Liberal Democrat candidate, writes on his blog: "Even before Labour's NEC has decided whether the shortlist for the vacancy as Labour PPC for Darlington will be open or all-female, and some months before local members get to vote on the matter, The Northern Echo reports today that 'it understands that Roger Baker will succeed Alan Milburn to defend the seat at the next General Election.'"

I have to admit that's an error on our part. What was supposed to have been reported this morning was that "The Northern Echo understands that Roger Baker will seek selection to succeed Alan Milburn..."

It was a cock-up at the editing stage - entirely our fault and I apologise for the confusion.

Providing it's an open shortlist, Roger Baker will put his name forward.