Clayton Barr won the Labor pre-selection ballot and first term Cessnock councillor, Allan McCudden announced he will be a candidate.

Earlier in the week, Nationals leader, Andrew Stoner was in the city to launch Mayor, Cr. Alison Davey’s campaign at the Vincent Street campaign office.

Mr. Stoner and Cr. Davey had been touring the city where meetings were held at Hydro Aluminium and Cessnock Rescue Squad headquarters.

Already confirmed as candidates for the seat, to be vacated by Kerry Hickey after 12 years in the job are independent, Cr. Dale Troy and The Greens Cr. James Ryan. Cr. Ian Olsen who has also been mentioned as possible candidate said at this stage he would probably not be contesting the election but was not completely out of the race.

Labor pre-selected Clayton Barr after elections held last Saturday. He was successful over Mark Crosdale and Cr. James Hawkins. First voting saw Mr. Barr gain 50 votes, Mr. Crosdale 39 and Cr. Hawkins nine. After preferences Mr. Barr polled 57 and Mr. Crosdale 41.

There were 112 eligible voters from the two Cessnock branches, Bellbird, Kurri, Abermain, Weston, Kurri, West Wallsend and Beresfield/Tarro.

Cr. McCudden said he made his decision after much consideration and consultation with his family and prompting from the community over the past months.

“I will be a self funded independent candidate without any financial backing from any group or individuals,” he said.