The Tories have picked their candidate who will fight to retain the South Norfolk constituency for them at the next general election.

The local party has selected Poppy Simister-Thomas to try to keep the seat currently held by Richard Bacon.

Eastern Daily Press: Poppy Simister-ThomasPoppy Simister-Thomas (Image: Poppy Simister-Thomas)

Mrs Simister-Thomas, whose husband David is the Conservative candidate for Norwich South, said: "It is an honour to be selected to represent South Norfolk.

"I want South Norfolk to continue to be a place where everyone can build a good life for themselves and their families, with high-quality jobs, good public services, and a unique natural environment.

"I will be a visible candidate and you will be seeing me out and about throughout the area.

"I’ve been able to speak to many residents and am looking forward to getting to know many
more over the coming months."

The Oxford University graduate spent five years as an oil trader and currently works for consultants McKinsey.

She currently lives in Cambridgeshire, where she is a previous chair of the Cambridge Conservative Association and deputy chairman of the Eastern Region Conservative Women's Organisation.

Eastern Daily Press: South Norfolk MP Richard BaconSouth Norfolk MP Richard Bacon (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK PHOTOGRAPHIC vÉÄövǬ© 2010)

Said she and her family will be moving to Norfolk to contest the seat Mr Bacon, who announced in May that he would stand down, has held for the Tories since 2001.

READ MORE: David Campbell Bannerman in South Norfolk Tory row

Mrs Simister-Thomas added: "I have already seen for myself the importance of upgrading infrastructure at places like Wymondham station and the need for a pragmatic approach for the planned Norwich to Tilbury electricity pylons.

"My work in healthcare helps me understand the urgency for helping people in South Norfolk to see their local GP and dentist when they need to."

Eastern Daily Press: Daniel ElmerDaniel Elmer (Image: Archant)

Daniel Elmer, chairman of the selection committee, said: "I’m absolutely delighted Poppy will be standing, bringing her business experience to parliament, her energy, commitment and local knowledge is exactly what we need to drive South Norfolk forward."