THE Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Green Party are battling to end Derek Foster's 22-year reign as Labour MP, in Bishop Auckland, on Thursday.

Mr Foster's fight to retain the seat is based around his hopes for Labour to build upon the positive things that have happened in the constituency since it took over the running of the country in 1997.

He said: "In that time, Labour has built a firm foundation for a better Britain. Much has been done, but much remains to be done."

His Conservative opponent, Fiona McNish, pledges to fight to improve town centres, end taxation by stealth, support farmers and those who love the countryside, replace all "missing" police officers and keep the pound.

Carl Bennett, founder of the area's branch of the Green Party in February 2000, says his main issue is globalisation and its effects on democracy, along with the "corporatisation of the Government and all the other services".

The Liberal Democrats' candidate, veteran councillor Chris Foote Wood, said: "I will continue to be very much involved in local issues which I can take up at national level and the most pressing one is the foot-and-mouth crisis. There is also flood prevention at South Church and West Auckland after the floods exactly a year ago. We also need a revival of our town centres."

Read more about the Election here.