About Elwyn Watkins

Born and bred in Rochdale, Lancashire, Elwyn Watkins was educated at local schools before going to the London School of Economics where he was elected General Secretary of the Students Union.

Post-University he led the project team that set up one of the first European on-line business information systems. After obtaining a double distinction MBA at Bradford University he has spent most of his career in the Middle East. He insisted that he returned back to Rochdale where since 2004 he has been a local Councillor.

Elwyn plans to move into the constituency as soon as possible.

He says, "I've got my eye on Lees - you can still get tripe in the Co-Op and people call you 'love'. It's what I'm used to - a traditional Lancashire village.

"I have already talked to many hundreds of people in the constituency and many people think that Labour have really let them down on crime and healthcare."

Oldham Council leader Howard Sykes says, "Elwyn is a down-to-earth northern lad who I know will do very well in this area. He spoke passionately about crime, which is of major concern to many local people."

Elwyn has been involved in the Liberal Democrats for over 20 years.

He was a central figure in the successful General Election campaign in Rochdale in 2005 and has helped in numerous by-elections. He was overjoyed at the May 2008 result, which saw the Liberal Democrats poll more votes than Labour and the Conservatives combined. The Liberal Democrats won every council seat up for election in the Oldham East & Saddleworth parliamentary constituency and Elwyn is proud to have been a key part of the successful camapign team.

Only a 5% swing from Labour is needed to win in Oldham East & Saddleworth.

Elwyn says, "I have experience of tackling Labour head-on in their heartlands and all I can say to Phil Woolas is 'Watch Out!'"