Rochester and Strood Conservatives have selected Borstal resident Alan Kew, to contest the Rochester West by-election on Thursday 8 March called following the resignation of Kelly Tolhurst MP as the ward councillor. Kelly’s promotion to the Government Whips Office meant she could no longer continue in both roles. Alan, a keen cyclist and sailor, has lived in Borstal for thirty years. Married to Hilary, they have a grown-up daughter and two grandchildren. He has worked as a civil engineer on regeneration and highway projects for 35 years.
Kelly Tolhurst MP said:
‘I am delighted Alan Kew has been selected as the Conservative candidate for Rochester West. Alan has lived in the ward for many years, and is a true defender of our community. He has been part of the Conservative local team and I know he will work tirelessly representing the residents of Rochester West at Medway Council alongside Cllr Stuart Tranter.’
Councillor Alan Jarrett, Leader of the Council, said:
‘I would like to formally congratulate Alan Kew on his selection as Conservative Candidate for the Rochester West by-election. I am extremely pleased to welcome a candidate of Alan’s calibre to the Conservative Group, and I very much look forward to both supporting him throughout the campaign and working with him in the future.’