Mr Townley works in the construction and forestry industry and previously ran a charter business offering helicopter flights around Cumbria and throughout the country. His wife runs a shop in Milnthorpe and makes bespoke curtains, blinds, and soft furnishings.

He said: “Our family and work life in South Lakes is a testament to the area’s potential as a thriving and nurturing community.”

Mr Townley will compete against current Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron who has held the Westmorland and Lonsdale seat since 2005 as well as Conservative parliamentary candidate Matty Jackman. Labour have not yet selected a prospective parliamentary candidate for the area.