The by-election was triggered when Tony Blair, the Labour Party Member of Parliament (MP) for Sedgefield and former Prime Minister, resigned to become envoy for the international diplomatic Quartet on the Middle East.

The UK Independence Party (UKIP) selected Toby Horton, who formerly contested the seat for the Conservatives in 1983, and in 1992 stood in Rother Valley.

The leader of the Official Monster Raving Loony Party, Alan Hope, also stood, having previously contested a long list of seats in both general and by-elections.

The English Democrats chose Stephen Gash, and Operation Christian Vote fielded barrister Tim Grainger.

[3] Local independent councillor Paul Gittins stood on a platform calling for the regeneration of the centre of Newton Aycliffe.