Radio host Iain Dale has announced he is to quit his show on LBC to stand for parliament.

It is understood the broadcaster will seek to stand as the Conservative candidate in Tunbridge Wells at the forthcoming general election.

The 61-year-old revealed his decision live on LBC yesterday evening.

He told listeners: “You know how much politics means to me. And if you've listened for any length of time, you know I've always had two ambitions in life. One was to be a radio presenter and the other was to be an MP.

“Last time I tried, the electorate fought back, in quite a major way it has to be said. But now I am putting my hat in the ring again to be a candidate at the general election.

“Whatever the result, I feel I can play a role in restoring trust and honesty in politics. There are no guarantees I will be selected, let alone elected, but I know that I would forever kick myself if I didn't at least have a go.

“Even if you don't share my politics, I hope at least that's something you can respect.

“Now, under broadcast rules I could technically carry on presenting this show until Friday but I'm going to step aside now. It just feels the right thing to do.”

It comes after Greg Clark, who has held the Kent seat for the Tories since 2005, announced he will not stand for re-election.

At the 2019 general election Mr Clark won the Tunbridge Wells poll with a majority of 14,645.

Tom Cheal, LBC's senior managing editor, said: "Iain Dale is a world-class broadcaster, and has been hugely important in helping to make LBC the political powerhouse it is today.

"I'm sure this isn't the last we've heard of Iain on LBC. We understand his decision and thank him for his massive contribution to the station."