A MALE nurse has become the latest candidate to enter the race to succeed Mo Mowlam as MP for Redcar.

Andrew Scott, a 31-year-old staff nurse from Loftus, is standing for the Labour nomination.

He recognises that the high-profile contest is likely to attract national media interest.

He said: "I am in a David and Goliath situation, but, at 6ft 4in and 18 stone, this David will fight the national candidates all the way!"

At last year's Labour party conference, Mr Scott received a standing ovation from delegates when he donned his hospital white coat during his speech.

Mr Scott said: "I know the local issues and that will hit home with the local party.

"I know that Mo would like to see a woman replace her.

"The gender balance in Parliament is an important issue which must be addressed, but the decision for Redcar is one that Redcar members must make when they choose the candidate that they prefer.

So far, women who are known to have expressed an interest in the race to be the Labour candidate are Redcar and Cleveland councillor Maureen Hall, former district councillor Sheila Argument, GMB union worker Julie Eliott, and university lecturer Gay Johnston.

Among the men thought to be interested in the post are Stockton councillor Geoff Field, and Darren Murphy, senior advisor to Health Secretary and Darlington MP Alan Milburn.

The Conservative Party has already chosen businessman Chris Main as their candidate.

The successful Labour candidate should be announced on December 16.