Local MP Sarah Dyke has launched her bid to become the first MP for the new seat of Glastonbury and Somerton.

She started her campaign on February 16, promising to fight for rural NHS services and be a voice for residents across Somerset.

The campaign kick-off was held at the Catash Inn in North Cadbury.

She was joined by Alistair Carmichael MP, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for home affairs, Wera Hobhouse MP, the party's spokesperson for energy and climate change, and supporters from across the new constituency.

Somerset County Gazette: She started her campaign on February 16

In July 2023, Ms Dyke had managed to overturn a Conservative majority of 19,213 in the constituency of Somerton and Frome.

She won the seat with 21,187 votes, achieving a majority of 11,008 and a swing of 29 per cent.

However, as a result of the boundary review by the Commission for England, that seat is set to cease to exist at the calling of the next general election.

In October, she announced her candidacy for the new seat of Glastonbury and Somerton.

Commenting on her campaign, Ms Dyke said: "Since being elected, I’ve been working hard on the issues that matter to people in this part of Somerset.

"I’ve campaigned to fix our NHS and make it easier for people to see a GP."

She also stated her determination to continue fighting for the local rural communities that she believes have been "let down" by the Conservative party.

Ms Dyke drew attention to the stark choice the voters have in the upcoming election.

She reiterated her commitment stating: "If I’m elected, I will continue championing better local NHS services, fighting for urgent action on the cost of living and working to safeguard the environment."

She expressed gratitude for the support she had received from her local activists who were willing to rally support and distribute campaign leaflets.