Clark favourite for Kensington

The maverick former Defence minister Alan Clark emerged last night as favourite to succeed Sir Nicholas Scott as MP for Kensington and Chelsea.

The True Blue activists in one of the safest Tory seats may have sacked Sir Nicholas for one too many mishaps, but nevertheless they seem keen to replace him with an equally colourful character. Hot on Mr Clark's heels is Patricia Morris, a former stockbroking analyst. Her only impediment - she was born in Bolton.

The other two finalists selected by the executive council last night were Daniel Moylan, the only local candidate, and Martin Howe, Geoffrey Howe's Euro-sceptic nephew. The election will be held at a Special General Meeting tomorrow night.

"Mr Clark is dry and home" quipped a member of the executive council, with a reference to the deselection of Sir Nicholas after a series of drink-related incidents.