The Lib Dems have today announced that they will not field a candidate in the constituency of Wyre Forest.

The party is calling on its supporters to back a local independent candidate who is standing in protest at Labour's handling of the NHS.

In 1997 Labour's David Lock won the seat with a 6,946 majority.

This time around, Lock faces a challenge from Dr Richard Taylor, who is standing in protest at cuts in a local hospital.

Announcing the party's decision not to field a candidate, Lord Razzall, the Lib Dem campaign manager, denied the party had done a deal with Dr Taylor.

He said: "We decided to support the candidate who is supporting the NHS and standing on that platform. It's as simple as that "

Dr Taylor is standing on behalf of a group called Health Concern, which is seeking to halt a reduction in services provided by Kidderminster General Hospital.The Tories are rejecting calls for their candidate to stand aside.

Speaking on Wednesday, the Conservative chairman, Michael Ancram said the people of Wyre Forest had a right to choose between the parties.

"I think it's right that people should be allowed to vote Conservative in all constituencies," he said.

The Lib Dems today claimed they offered a "chance for change" in the health service.

Speaking at this morning's news conference, Charles Kennedy said: "Liberal Democrats are committed to the NHS. Our commitment is to provide more doctors and nurses and to cut the time that individuals have to wait for their treatment."