A SALES manager for a medical firm has been chosen by Liberal Democrats to fight the Durham seat at the next General Election.

Carol Woods, 45, is responsible for device-maker Medtronic's neuro-vascular business in Britain and Scandinavia.

She will take on Labour MP Gerry Steinberg, 55, who has held the seat since 1987, and Tory hopeful Nick Cartmell, 33, a Newcastle-based barrister.

Ms Woods comes from Durham, and now lives in Sherburn Village.

As a successful businesswoman, Ms Woods believes that encouraging inward investment and increasing employment is the key to developing the city.

She said: "A strong economy is essential to enable everyone to reach their potential and enjoy their life.'