CABINET minister Theresa Villiers was in Colchester to find out residents’ priorities ahead of the May General Election.

Mrs Villiers, who is Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, visited the British Forces Broadcasting Service, off Homefield Road, in Shrub End, before taking a short tour around the St Michael’s estate with Will Quince, the Conservative Parliamentary candidate.

She said: “The Prime Minister has told members of the cabinet to take a range of visits around the country to talk to people about their priorities.

“He wants us to make sure we are getting out of the Westminster bubble.

“In Colchester, fromwhat I’ve picked up, jobs and the economy are crucial priorities for people.”

Mr Quince added: “One of my key messages is I want to get Colchester a seat at the top of the table, to be in touching distance of cabinet ministers.

“That is where it should be and that’s what its residents deserve.”