Former England cricketer tipped to run as Midland MP

Former England cricket star Darren Gough is a shock name in the frame to replace disgraced Tory Aidan Burley as Cannock MP.

The ex-bowler, pictured below, who found new fame by winning TV’s Strictly Come Dancing, is being touted as a possible Conservative candidate for the 2015 election.

Former Blues chief Karren Brady is another potential contender.

Mr Burley revealed he would not seek re-election last week as he bid to end a long-running row over his involvement in a Nazi-themed stag party.

The politician admitted buying an SS uniform which groom Mark Fournier wore during the bash at the French ski resort of Val Thorens.

Mr Fournier was ordered to pay £2,000 in fines and costs by a French court, after a police tribunal in Albertville heard guests chanted “Hitler, Hitler, Hitler,” while one raised a toast to the Third Reich.

Wearing a Nazi costume is an offence in France.

Tory sources said there was expected to be fierce competition for the chance to stand in Cannock Chase.

But the leader of the Conservative group on Cannock Chase District Council, Coun Paul Snape, said: “Personally, I would like a local person, with a business background and some experience of life.”