Hunt is on for Great Yarmouth's next Tory candidate

Sir Brandon, the former chairman of the Conservative Party who held a range of senior government posts, announced his decision on Thursday to stand down at the next general election, which is due no later than January.

He has been Great Yarmouth's MP since 2010.

Sir Brandon Lewis pictured in 2010, shortly before becoming MP for Great Yarmouth. Picture - Newsquest Archives (Image: Newsquest Archives)On Thursday, Sir Brandon informed Great Yarmouth Conservative Association chairman Robert Price of his decision.

Mr Price said the process of selecting a new Conservative candidate for the constituency is under way.

"As soon as Sir Brandon told me, that kicked in my administration process," said Mr Price.

Mr Price said Conservative Party central headquarters has been in touch with him and others about the selection process, which Mr Price said "has changed slightly" over the years.

"The methods of selecting candidates is far more professional now than it ever was," he said. 

"Now you have to go through various tasks, seminars and training sessions to be considered for an MP, and then the central party will put out a list of candidates and you make your choices."

Robert Price, chairman of the Great Yarmouth Conservative Society. Picture - submitted (Image: Submitted)Mr Price said he knew of people interested in the role, but could not reveal any names at this time.

"It's a bit like when someone leaves a job in the Premiership, there's always people lining up for it," he added.

The chairman said he was disappointed with Sir Brandon's decision to stand down, but added that he understood the reasons and commended the MP's "honest and upfront" nature.

Mr Price added: "I believe when you look back at Brandon's record, and as he got more of a national profile, Yarmouth benefitted greatly by the influx of funding for a number of things, including the Herring Bridge and the upcoming work at the Conge and the North Quay.

"I just hope we can keep our contacts in central government and keep the money rolling into Yarmouth.

"I wish Brandon and his family all the best in the future."