A former British army major has announced he will contest the race to become leader of the Ulster Unionist Party.
Mr Alan McFarland said his military background would help him unite the party and instill in its members the discipline needed for electoral success.
The North Down MLA is the third candidate to announce his intention to succeed David Trimble , who stood down after last month's general election.
Mr McFarland (55) said: “The last election showed that a large part of the unionist electorate has lost confidence in the Ulster Unionist Party. They either stayed at home or supported the DUP.
“If the UUP is to rebuild confidence and trust, it must look like a party that deserves a vote - not one riven with internal squabbles and a bad sense of judgement on political PR issues.
“To that end, our internal structures need to be improved and a tight sense of self-discipline introduced. The party also has to rededicate itself to `bread and butter' politics, out there in the community.
“We have to matter, to make a difference and to improve the lives of individuals in our society,” he said.
Last week, former Stormont Economy Minister Sir Reg Empey confirmed he would stand against Strangford UUP Assembly Member David McNarry.
Veteran peer Lord Maginnis is also expected to enter the race, and former deputy leader Lord Kilclooney has expressed interest in taking over - although only as a temporary leader.
The contest will be held on June 24th, with nominations closing seven days beforehand.
It will be the first leadership battle since the Protestant Orange Order severed its links with the UUP in March, removing a bloc of about 120 delegates on the Ulster Unionist Council.
Mr Trimble stood down as leader after the UUP lost four House of Commons seats in the election, leaving it with just one MP.