VETERAN politician Ann Widdecombe trotted into Southend West on a horse and carriage to back Tory candidate Sir David Amess.

As the campaign trail hots up, Sir David, the Parliamentary candidate for Southend West enlisted the help of Miss Widdecombe.

Sir David is fighting to keep his seat in Southend West for the Tories in the general election.

The pair spent Thursday afternoon touring Leigh in the horse-drawn carriage, meeting residents at St Clement’s Church and in Belfairs.

Sir David said: “I was absolutely delighted Ann came to visit Southend West today and spend so much time campaigning for me.

“She is an instantly recognisable politician who is highly respected by local people and people across the country.”

Ann Widdecombe said: “I have been delighted with the reception David has been getting.”

The other candidates for Southend West are Labour’s Julian Ware-Lane, Lib Dem’s Paul Collins, Green Party’s Jon Fulller, and Ukip’s Brian Otridge.