Army hero, who led biggest tank battle in Iraq War, close to becoming Tory MP

An Army hero who led the biggest tank battle in the Iraq War was last night on the verge of becoming a Tory MP.

Chris Brannigan was the third candidate shortlisted for the prized safe Conservative seat of Aldershot, famed for its military links.

The Tories secured a 14,901 majority in the constituency in 2015 under the veteran Gerald Howarth – who’s stepping down this Election.

A decision was due to be made the local association last night. They had wanted Dan Hannan, the Tory MEP for south-east England to stand.

But Tory central office left the widely respected Brexit campaigner off the list.

The Sun last summer revealed Theresa May had hired Mr Brannigan for her top team in No.10. The former Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Lieutenant Colonel commanded a tank squadron to liberate Basra in 2003.

He led the charge during Britain’s largest tank engagement sicne the Second World War.

Since September he has been fighting the PM’s battles as Downing Street’s new External Affairs chief, selling Government policy from Whitehall to the business world.

Mr Brannigan was shortlisted for the Aldershot seat with Leo Docherty, an Iraqi veteran and Emma Lane, a councillor in the New Forest.