THE Tamworth electorate now has two starters for the NSW elections to be held in March.
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Former independent Peter Draper has announced he will fight it out against current member and National Party candidate Kevin Anderson and whoever else might put their hand up for the seat.
Mr Draper, who held the seat between 2003 and 2011, claims Mr Anderson has failed to deliver results for his electorate.
But Mr Anderson, in Gunnedah last night for the Mayor’s Christmas Function, said he welcomed anyone who exercised their “democratic right” to run for State Parliament.
“I’m expecting there will be others,” he said.
“I welcome anyone who puts their hand up to represent their community.
“It’s a very difficult role. It’s a challenging role. They need to be encouraged because not many people are willing to step forward.”
Mr Anderson polled 54.5 per cent of the primary vote in the 2011 election, ahead of Mr Draper with 38.2 per cent.
Mr Anderson said he would continue to “work as hard as I have done”.
“For me, it’s business as usual,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to the next three months.”
Mr Anderson had the unofficial launch of his campaign in Gunnedah this week when he announced a commitment of $2 million for a Gunnedah Hospital redevelopment if he was re-elected.