A Bradford councillor has been hand-picked to take part in a new programme which grooms politicians to become future leaders.

Glen Miller, who represents the Worth Valley ward, has been chosen as one of the top 24 Conservative councillors in the country who qualify for the Next Generation programme.

The unique, 18-month training scheme has been developed by the Leadership Centre for Local Government, together with former Bradford Council leader Margaret Eaton, the Conservative Group leader for the Local Government Association, and the former director of candidate selection for the Conservative Party, Christina Dykes.

Coun Miller, of Shann Park, Keighley, was delighted at his success: "I am proud and honoured but also it raises the profile of Bradford.

"The programme will be launched on Monday at the party conference and includes a full timetable of seminars and training sessions," he said.

"It's about helping to train councillors so they can put into local government and local people for the benefit of everybody."

The 43-year-old married father-of-one is chairman of the Council's regulatory and appeals committee and was first elected to Bradford Council in 1999. He was ousted by the British National Party two years ago by seven votes then took the seat back in May's local elections.

Coun Miller works as deputy chief executive officer of Bingley Voluntary Action. He spent 12 years serving in the Army and was discharged after being injured on duty.

He will be given practical leadership skills, access to senior Conservative party members, work with the best policy-makers and learn from model councils and veteran councillors.

Christina Dykes, Next Generation political director for the Conservatives, said: "In his application form, Coun Miller showed a commitment to the ideals of local government and demonstrated a flair and potential for leadership.

e-mail: jo.winrow@bradford.newsquest.co.uk