THE Liberal Democrats have opened their new campaign HQ in Richmond as they prepare to fight for a seat that has been held by the Conservative Party since the 1930s.

Richmond (Yorks), which is historically one of the safest seats in the country, has remained under Conservative control since the 1931 General Election.

But going up against Conservative candidate Rishi Sunak, The Labour Party's Thom Kirkwood, The Yorkshire Party's Laurence Waterhouse, Green Party's John Yorke and independent Nick Jardine, Lib Dem candidate Philip Knowles said the move "reflected a boost" in support for the party over the last two years.

He also said it reflected the 'changing mood' of Richmondshire's residents.

Opening the campaign HQ, he said: "The Conservatives have had it easy round here for way too long."

Mr Knowles, last week claimed constituents "deserved better" from government, while claiming a No-Deal Brexit would have disastrous impacts on farmers and businesses.

The Liberal Democrats' Richmondshire HQ at Trinity Church Square is open between 10am and 4pm on Tuesday to Sunday.