An independent council stalwart has declared that she will fight to become MP Douglas Hogg's successor in his Lincolnshire constituency.

The leader of the official opposition at Lincolnshire County Council, Marianne Overton, will stand as an independent candidate for Sleaford and North Hykeham at the General Election.

But Cllr Overton will have to defeat Tory favourite Stephen Phillips to secure her place in the House of Commons.

Labour's James Normington, Liberal Democrat David Harding-Price and UKIP nominee Roger Doughty are also included in the candidate list.

Mr Hogg, who was at the centre of national controversy last year due to claims he made for moat cleaning costs, is standing down at the next election, which must take place on or before June 3 this year.

Cllr Overton, who lives in Welbourn, south of Lincoln, said attracting more resources into all areas of the constituency and easing traffic congestion were key issues.

"I think the best MPs are the ones that have roots in the local community, understand the issues and work closely in partnership with local government," she said.

North Hykeham resident Valerie O'Donnell said she was interested to hear Cllr Overton would be involved at the General Election.

The 82-year-old, of St Hugh's Drive, North Hykeham, said the candidates' policies towards older people were of interest to her.

"The two main parties just seem to spend time scrapping with each other which is nothing to do with sorting the country out," she said.