SANDRA Gidley won the Romsey seat in a by-election in 2000 and retained it in both the 2001 and 2005 general elections.
She was a pharmacist for over 20 years before becoming an MP and has been a Liberal Democrat health spokesman and a member of Commons health select committee for the past four years.
Mrs Gidley said: "Protecting local health services is a top priority for me. I am proud of the difference I have been able to make over nine years as an MP in supporting our local health services.
"Helping save Romsey Hospital from closure in 2005 and getting a new NHS dentist for our area last year are two highlights for me."
Mrs Gidley is married with two children.
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