A two-times Liberal Democrat general election candidate in Ilkley has pledged his support to Labour’s 2015 contender.

Nader Fekri, who stood for the Lib Dems in 2005 and 2010, defected to Labour two years ago.

He has visited the town to declare his backing for prospective parliamentary candidate John Grogan.

“As time went on, I became increasingly angry with many of the policies of the Conservative-led coalition government – particularly concerning the National Health Service, lack of support for the vulnerable in society and student fees,” said Mr Fekri.

“These are far removed from traditional left-of-centre policies associated with Liberalism in the North of England and I decided to join the Labour party to fight for a progressive alternative.”

Mr Grogan said: “There has always been a significant Liberal vote in Keighley constituency, which Nader pushed up to nearly 15 per cent of the total in 2010 with a very energetic campaign.

“I am delighted to have his endorsement.”