THE Liberal Democrat election candidate for Rochford and Southend East has been announced.

Peter Gwizdala will stand for election on May 7.

Mr Gwizdala was born in London in 1960 and was educated at the City of London School and Salford University He joined the Army and was commissioned in the Royal Artillery, serving in the UK, Germany and the Falklands. In 2009, he was did a tour of duty in Afghanistan

He started his own businesses in property and human resources and has also worked in investment banking and the port industry He is also a rowing coach and has completed five London marathons.

He lives with his wife and 14-year-old son in Woodbridge, Suffolk Mr Gwizdala said: “I am delighted to be fighting the Lib Dem corner in Rochford & Southend East. The local economy is now showing signs of strong recovery as the policies of the coalition Government have worked.

“But looking forward we need a strong Lib Dem voice in Government to stop the Tories making excessive cuts in public services and welfare and to stop Labour wasting money and mishandling the economy. I want to be part of the common sense voice in the centre of British politics.”

Graham Longley, deputy leader of Southend Council and leader of the Lib Dem Council Group said: “I am delighted that Peter is our candidate. His experience in the Army and business make him an ideal candidate at a time when voters are sick and tired of professional politicians.”