The greatest privilege of his life.

That is how Tonbridge and Malling's long-serving outgoing MP Sir John Stanley (Con) has summed up his time serving his constituency ahead of stepping down at the election in May.

This week, as the election campaign began, he thanked his constituents.

Sir John, who was first elected in 1974, announced he would be retiring at this election in 2013.

He has built up an 18,000 majority, making Tonbridge and Malling one of the Conservative’s safest seats.

He said: “As I retire as Tonbridge and Malling’s MP with the dissolution of Parliament, I wanted to thank you my constituents, whatever your political views, for your unfailing courtesy, helpfulness and interest in our national life and local communities.

“Without any doubt, the greatest privilege of my life has been to represent you at Westminster these past 41 years. Thank you for choosing me to do so. I send you all my very best wishes for the future.”

He spoke of the area’s benefits, including easy access to London, combined with the joys of the Kent countryside, excellent schools and hospitals.

“He added: “Businesses of every size and type, high- quality local media, and societies, clubs, charities and churches catering for a huge range of interests, sports and needs. No wonder that our constituency has been designated as one of the most desirable areas in which to live. Long may it remain so.”

Sir John has held a number of government posts over the years, and has specialised in defence. He is a former aide to the chief of defence staff.

Standing in his place at the election is former British Army soldier Thomas Tugendhat, who was selected as the prospective parliamentary candidate for the constituency in November 2013.