LIBERAL Democrat Leader Charles Kennedy has backed a Blackburn-born solicitor's bid to become the region's first Asian Euro-MP when he stands at this year's European elections.
Sajad Karim, 33, would also be the first member of the European Parliament from East Lancashire and the party's first ethnic minority MEP if he wins a seat at the vote in June.
Mr Karim, who is a partner at Marsdens Solicitors in Manchester Road, Nelson, said victory in June would be a huge boost to the image of the area and would help counter the view of the region as divisive following the success of the British National Party in recent local elections.
The married father-of-two, who was born in Blackburn, brought up in Brierfield and now lives in Simonstone, is currently busy on the campaign trail with running mate Chris Davies, who already holds a North West seat.
Mr Karim said: "I believe as number two on the LibDem list I can become a Euro-MP and will represent everybody in the North West but my particular knowledge of East Lancashire ensures that their concerns will be represented in Brussels."
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