MARY Dhonau, one of Worcester's most vociferous campaigners, wants to become a Liberal Democrat MP for the city.

The 46-year-old has hit national headlines for her work to improve flooding safeguards and has also campaigned against the MMR vaccine and, most recently, the county council's special needs education review.

Now she wants to take her crusading work to Westminster by ousting Labour's Mike Foster, although she still has to pass two crucial tests set by the party before being chosen.

"It's almost 'if you can't beat them, join them'. But I would stick to my guns and stick to what I believe in, though largely what I believe in is Liberal Democrat policy," said Mrs Dhonau, who has been a party member for two years.

The mother of five said that her General Election pitch would include pressing for more policemen on the beat, improving personal care for the elderly and supporting the Lib Dems' "Axe the Tax" campaign.

She dismissed the idea that making her political allegiances public would compromise her role as a campaigner.

"Absolutely not, I will still campaign against things and would be in a better position if I was elected," she said.

She acknowledged that she could split Mike Foster's vote if she ran, although she would expect to take votes from both main parties.

"I know I'm trusted in Worcester because I'm stopped in the streets by people saying 'Please go into politics - I'll vote for you'."

Mr Foster was "surprised" to learn that Mrs Dhonau was a member of the Liberal Democrats.

He said: "In terms of the impact on votes, I think once people look at Liberal Democrat policy, such as their opposition to the Anti-Social Behaviour Act, they will be appalled."

Paul Griffiths, chairman of the Worcester Lib Dems, said he hoped a candidate would be chosen by the end of the year.