The Conservatives have selected their candidate for the Hampstead Garden Suburb by-election following the resignation of Councillor Danny Seal.

Rohit Grover, who stood for the party in Childs Hill last year, will contest the seat on May 7, the same day as the General Election.

Cllr Seal announced he was standing down yesterday to focus on his global media and conference company, leaving the Conservatives without a majority on Barnet Borough Council.

Hampstead Garden Suburb is currently represented by Conservative councillors Gabriel Rozenberg and John Marshall.

Cllr Rozenberg said: “Rohit is an exceptionally capable and hardworking guy. He will make an outstanding councillor if he is elected this May.

“I’m sorry to see Danny step down – he’s been a great colleague. Danny’s made a positive decision to focus on his business, and everyone wishes him all the best.”