IT COULD be said to be a refreshing change when politicians with opposing views go out of their way to be polite to one another.

But a letter from Eastleigh MP David Chidgey to the constituency's prospective Tory candidate Conor Burns has raised some smiles on both sides of the political divide.

Mr Burns moved into Granada Road at Hedge End more than two years ago - but has just had a letter from Mr Chidgey welcoming him to his new home and wishing him a long and happy stay in the Eastleigh constituency.

The letter says: "My main reason for writing to you is to let you know that, as your MP, I am always pleased to hear from any local resident, whatever their political affiliation. This way I can discover at first hand constituents' 'grass roots' views on current issues.

"I am always pleased to welcome constituents to Westminster and discuss my work in parliament."

Pointing out that he and his team of casework officers helped thousands of local people every year with problems, the letter added: "If I can be of any assistance now or in the future, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

"In the meantime, I look forward to meeting you around the constituency."

The Tory hopeful - who was beaten by Mr Chidgey by 3,058 votes in the 2001 general election - said he was "delighted, if a little surprised" to have Mr Chidgey's good wishes for a long and happy stay in the constituency.

"David joins the many others who have told me how delighted they are that I am to stay on as the prospective candidate."

But he added: "I was a bit surprised that he wrote to me welcoming me to the area when I have lived in the same home in Hedge End for over two years. Then again, I suppose as he has never lived locally it's a bit difficult for him to keep in touch."

In a tongue-in-cheek reply, Mr Chidgey - who will be stepping down at the next general election - said: "I always make a point of welcoming new residents to my constituency - whatever their aspirations. I'm sorry that Conor was overlooked in the past...clearly he hasn't made much of an impact."