Halton Brook councillor John Stockton wins battle to become Labour’s Weaver Vale parliamentary candidate

Mar 20 2010 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

Weaver Vale Labour candidate John Stockton

LABOUR members put their faith in Halton Brook councillor John Stockton in the battle for the Weaver Vale constituency on Friday night.

After weeks of uncertainty, following MP Mike Hall’s decision to stand down before the general election, Cllr Stockton secured his place as Labour’s candidate.

“It was over and done with after the first ballot,” said Mr Stockton, of Norton, Runcorn, Labour constituency secretary.

“I was the local candidate and that was reflected in the ballot, I know I have the full backing of the constituency.”

All four shortlisted candidates, including former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott’s son David, ex-Ellesmere Port and Neston council leader Justin Madders, and Labour party policy officer Ben Johnson, found out their fates at a meeting in Frodsham Community Centre, Fluin Lane, on Friday night after a week long postal vote.

“There were 143 eligible voters, I won the first ballot with 77 votes, 56%, David Prescott was second and the other two shared 20% of the votes”, added Mr Stockton.

“Now we get on and win the seat for Labour.”