MP Richard Foord, who represents the Uffculme and Culmstock areas will not be standing in the area again at the next election.

Following a redrawing of election ward boundaries by the Boundary Commission, Mr Foord's old constituency of Tiverton and Honiton was abolished. That area included parts of mid Devon in the Wellington area.

Now Tiverton has been roped off into the new 'Tiverton and Minehead' constituency, where Conservative MP Ian Liddell-Grainger is confirmed to be standing.

Mr Foord has opted not to take on Mr Liddell-Grainger, and has instead chosen to stand in another newly created seat, named: 'Honiton and Sidmouth.'

In a statement Mr Foord said: "It’s such an honour to represent friends, neighbours and so many great people from our part of Devon in Parliament. When I was elected last year, I promised to be something different and to bang the drum for Devon. Since then, we’ve made a real difference and sent a clear message that we will not be taken for granted. 

“I believe that everyone deserves a strong local champion, acting as their voice in Parliament. This is what I like to think I have been over the past year and want to continue being – because there is so much that needs fixing. 

“I am determined to ensure we still have a strong local voice standing up for people in our part of Devon. That’s why I will be standing for the new ‘Honiton & Sidmouth’ constituency at the next General Election. 

“I will continue to work every day for everyone in Tiverton & Honiton, while also being a voice for people in parts of east Devon who also feel they’re being let down and taken for granted by this out of touch Conservative Government.  

“Local people have a clear choice at the next election: more neglect, failure, and crumbling services with the Conservatives, or a strong local champion fighting to fix our NHS, bring investment to our towns and villages, and get you the fair deal you deserve with an experienced Liberal Democrat MP who has a record of action. 

“I look forward to getting out and about over the coming months: listening to your concerns, hearing about your priorities, and showing why you can put your trust in me to represent you in Parliament. If you want to see things change for the better, consider supporting the Liberal Democrats and getting involved in my campaign.”