Chuka Umunna and Oona King

FORMER MP and Channel 4 Head of Diversity Oona King joined the Streatham Ethnic Minority Forum to support Labour's prospective parliamentary candidate Chuka Umunna at his recent fundraiser.

Labour party councilors and members turned up in force to support Umunna, who aims to hold the Streatham seat being vacated by Keith Hill MP at next year's Election.

At the packed south London fundraising supper, King announced to the enthusiastic supporters that the search for the British Obama ends with the Streatham candidate.

She said: "It was wonderful to see the huge outpouring of support for Chuka in his local constituency where he's the real deal: fighting for local people, and seeking to represent the area he grew up. People all over the country look forward to seeing Chuka in Parliament in the near future. There are many reasons for this, not least because Chuka clearly represents the future - both for Streatham and for Britain."

In her address King reminded the gathering that the Labour party supports many worthy projects in Africa and warned the south London locals that a Conservative government could sweep away humanitarian assistance for destitute people in war torn regions such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where she had recently visited.

Umunna told the audience that King is a political mentor and recommended her book 'The Oona King Diaries' as fundamental reading for anyone considering entering politics.

He said, "Oona is a great friend and source of advice - she is a role model for anyone embarking on the political journey I am on and it is wonderful to have her support".

Former EMF chair, Maxine James said, "It was heartwarming to see the excellent support for both Chuka and the Labour party. I believe that it is because of the policies that we have in place to support local people and to see that continue we are determined to ensure that Chuka Umunna is elected".

Participants of OBV's National BAME Women's Councillor Shadowing Scheme were also present. They welcomed the networking experience and being involved in local campaigning.

Jan Oliver, who will shadow Lambeth Councillor, Lib Peck said, "It is great to be involved at this level, I feel that I am no longer a bystander but someone who is on route to having a say in local affairs. The event was organic and very much rooted within the community. I am looking forward to shadowing Cllr Peck and this event puts into perspective not just the work that politicians do but how we all can get involved in helping to shape society".

Current Streatham EMF chair and the event organiser Jennifer Braithwaite said, "I must admit I was very surprised at the turnout. I know Chuka is a popular candidate but the support and enthusiasm from the area was overwhelming. He has really been making his presence felt locally and if this is a reflection of wider support then I think he will do very well at the Election".