Claire Rayner's Easleigh Visit Postponed As She Backs Lib Dem Vote

11.14.50am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 22nd Mar 2005

Former agony aunt and Patients' Association President Claire Rayner has had to postpone a visit to Eastleigh scheduled for this Thursday on doctor's orders.

Ms Rayner is suffering a bad bout of flu and has been told she must not travel. The meeting was due to take place at the Bishopstoke memorial hall, organised by Hampshire MEP Chris Huhne and the Liberal Democrats.

Ms Rayner said: "I am very disappointed not to be able to come on Thursday, as I wanted to make the case for elderly people to back the Liberal Democrats.

"The Lib Dems are the only party that is taking older people's issues to heart with an end to means-testing for pensioners through an increase in the pension of £100 per month for the over 75s, free long term care for the elderly, and the abolition of the council tax and its replacement by local income tax.

"Chris Huhne will make an excellent fighter for Eastleigh's young and old, and I am looking forward to rearranging my visit soon so that I can set out why Eastleigh voters should back him".

Chris Huhne MEP said: "We wish Claire a speedy recovery and hope to see her in Eastleigh soon. Many local people have been looking forward to the meeting".