A 30-YEAR-OLD Somerset politician is the Liberal Democrat's big hope in Worcester - and says she wants to get elected on her "values".

Federica Smith, who lives in Taunton, was selected as the party's city parliamentary candidate earlier this month.

She is seen as a rising star in Lib Dem circles nationally, having successfully fought a by-election to get onto the town's borough council two years ago.

Her term expires this May and she has sufficiently impressed a selection panel to become the party's Worcester hopeful after stating her ambitions for a Commons career.

Mrs Smith works for a private firm offering health insurance and is currently on maternity leave with her second child.

She said: "I am delighted to have been chosen as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Worcester.

"I am keen to promote the values that I hold dear."

The party is now trying to arrange for her to take part in at least one of the Cap 'N' Gown's General Election hustings events before May.

Mike Mullins, chair of Worcester's Liberal Democrats said: "Federica has tremendous experience, both in her work and politically.

"We are delighted to welcome such a talented young woman on board."