CONTROVERSIAL union leader Arthur Scargill right will be in town next month to launch his party's General Election campaign in Bolton.

The NUM leader formed the Socialist Labour Party earlier this year after accusing Tony Blair's New Labour of ditching its principles.

Mr Scargill, who was elected the SLP's President at its first national conference, will outline his vision for a future Britain in a rally at Bank Street Chapel in Bolton on November 1.

He will also be endorsing local miner's leader Billy Kelly as the SLP's candidate to fight the Bolton North East seat in the General Election.

Mr Scargill tore up his Labour Party card after more than 30 years membership shortly after the party jettisoned its commitment to public ownership when it dropped Clause Four of its constitution.

Since forming the party in February, thousands of people have joined the SLP, including prominent trades unionists from rail, transport, miners and bakers unions. Several councillors across the country have also defected to the party.

Mr Kelly, of Devon Street, Farnworth, was involved in the battle to save Parkside Colliery, Lancashire's last pit, from closure.

He will be challenging for one of the most marginal seats in the country, currently held by Independent Tory maverick, Peter Thurnham, who will not be standing. He will be up against Robert Wilson for the Tories and Labour's David Crausby.

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