A FOUNDING member of a project which hopes to take homeless people off Colchester’s streets will contest a key council seat for the Conservative Party.

One-third of all Colchester Council seats are up for election in May.

Simon Crow has been selected after sitting Conservative councillor Daniel Ellis opted not to seek re-election.

Mr Ellis said: “Trying to undertake a busy full-time job whilst being a councillor can be challenging at times.

“My career is likely to take me further away from Colchester so I thought it best to let someone else have the opportunity to serve the residents of Castle Ward and give the role 100 per cent.

“I’ve really enjoyed representing residents’ interests and wish Simon all the best in working with Darius Laws to fight for Castle Ward and Colchester.”

Mr Crow, who lives off East Hill, said: "‘I’m really excited to be given the opportunity to try and make a difference in the area I grew up in and live in now.

"I love Colchester but I have sadly watched neighbours such as Bury St Edmunds and Chelmsford outperform us.

"We have major infrastructure problems and we aren’t making enough of our unique heritage.

"There are some really exciting opportunities such as Jumbo and I’m determined to help make Colchester better for everyone."

Mr Crow will fight for the seat against Labour’s Norma Dinnie-Weall and Green Party leader Mark Goacher is expected to stand.

The Lib Dems are yet to select a candidate to partner sitting councillor Nick Barlow.