A Liberal Democrat councillor has set his sights on becoming an MP - just weeks on from earning his place on the council. 

Thomas Gravatt will be contesting the Southampton Test seat at the general election on July 4, the party has announced. 

It comes less than a month after he became the party's fourth councillor in Southampton following his election in the Swaythling ward. 

The Lib Dems say he will now be campaigning for improvements to the NHS, investment in Southampton and action to tackle the cost of living crisis. 

READ MORE: Lib Dems 'main opposition' on city council after election success

Speaking after the general election was announced, Cllr Gravatt said: “Local health services have been brought to their knees, people’s mortgages and rent have skyrocketed and Southampton has not received the investment it needs and deserves. 

"Back the Lib Dems this July and send a message that our city and our country need real change. 

“Every vote for the Liberal Democrats is a vote for a fair deal. It’s a vote for a party that will stand up for our community and our health services.” 

Another serving councillor, Christie Lambert is also vying for a parliamentary seat as she has been announced as Labour's candidate for Romsey and Southampton North. 

In a post on X on Saturday, May 25, she wrote: "Today, we officially launched our campaign for the general election!

"The overwhelming support for a Labour government was almost tangible.

"It's clear that people are desperate for change! I'm deeply honoured to have been selected as the candidate for my home constituency and look forward to helping secure a Labour government this July!"

READ MORE: Who is Southampton Itchen parliamentary candidate Sidney Yankson?

Conservative, Sidney Yankson is hoping to succeed Royston Smith as MP for Southampton Itchen and previously said on his website: “Tackling crime is one of my main objectives, especially tackling crime against women and girls."

The barrister and former army reservist added: “My policy is to get stuff done, like I did in the army."

Former councillor Darren Paffey and Cllr Satvir Kaur will both be standing for Labour in the Southampton Itchen and Southampton Test seats respectively.