John Denham, Labour MP for Southampton Itchen since 1992, has written to thousands of constituents to endorse Rowenna Davis as his successor when he stands down at the forthcoming general election.

Mr Denham said it had been a huge honour to represent the city, and he could only have done it with such strong support from so many local people.

"I know that Rowenna Davis has the drive and vision to represent Southampton superbly in the years ahead, and to tackle the many challenges the government will leave. I hope you will give her your support in the forthcoming general election."

Rowenna Davis said that she was honoured to have the opportunity to succeed John Denham, and described him as a “truly great constituency MP”.

Denham retained his Itchen seat for Labour on the tightest of margins in 2010, with just 192 votes between him and Conservative Royston Smith. Smith is again the parliamentary candidate for the Tories in 2015.

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