Norwich's Labour group has unveiled its candidates for the upcoming Norwich City Council elections – with a glowing endorsement from the shadow business secretary.

Former minister John Denham, who served on the cabinet as secretary of state for communities and local government, was in Norwich yesterday to lend his support to the party.

Earlier in the day Mr Denham had met an invited audience, including Labour party members and business leaders at Norwich City Football Club's Carrow Road stadium to discuss the party's future direction.

With Labour currently in control at City Hall with a minority administration, Mr Denham said he was hoping for 'great things' from the candidates in May's city council elections.

The candidates are: Bowthorpe – Mike Sands; Catton Grove – Paul Kendrick; Crome – Alan Waters; Eaton – Verity Sinclair; Lakenham – Keith Driver; Mancroft – Marion Maxwell; Mile Cross – Ralph Gayton; Nelson: Marian Chapman; Sewell – Julie Brociek-Coulton; Thorpe Hamlet – Mike Stonard; Town Close – Chris Ovel; University – Sarah Grenville; Wensum – Vaughan Thomas.

Mr Denham said: 'These elections are a referendum on the Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition and we are working very hard to ensure people get the chance to say what they think about the decisions made by that government.

'In Norwich we have got a Labour council which has managed to protect front-line services despite a difficult budget, in contrast with the county council which is using the financial situation to make decisions it has long wanted to make.'

Steve Morphew, pictured, leader of the Labour group, who has already announced he will stand down in May, said: 'We have got an excellent spread of talented candidates who will continue building on the solid foundations Labour have brought to the city council to put it in a much more successful position. If they get elected they will make excellent councillors and serve the city well.'

Long-serving city councillor Roy Blower, who represents University ward, is not seeking re-election.

The city council elections will take place on Thursday, May 5, when 13 city council seats will be up for grabs.

Parties have until Monday, April 4 to submit details of nominated candidates.

Do you have a story about a local council? Call Evening News reporter Dan Grimmer on 01603 772375 or email dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk