The Liberal Democrats have announced that Brian Paddick will be their candidate in next year's London mayoral elections.

The former Metropolitan Police commander overwhelmingly won the nomination following a ballot of party members in the capital.

He secured 73.4 per cent of the vote, compared with 18.8 per cent for barrister Chamali Fernando and 7.8 per cent for Fiyaz Mughal, the chief executive of Enfield citizens' advice bureau.

"I am enormously proud to be announced today as the Liberal Democrat candidate for London mayor," Paddick said.

"For too long Londoners have been denied a serious debate on the future of their city.

"Less crime, better transport, cleaner air and fewer Londoners living in poverty are all crucial in making sure that London remains one of the most exciting cities in the world.

"I strongly believe that the position of mayor can be a powerful source for good. During the coming months I will be explaining to people throughout London why the time has come for a change."

Lib Dem acting leader Vince Cable added: "I am delighted that the Liberal Democrats are able to put forward such an excellent candidate.

"Brian is a life-long Londoner with the high-level experience needed to be London mayor.

"London is one of the greatest cities in the world and in Brian Paddick, Londoners finally have the serious candidate they deserve."

Paddick rose to prominence as police commander of Lambeth, where he attracted attention for his liberal stance on cannabis.

He will now go forward to next May's London-wide poll for the directly-elected mayoralty.

Labour incumbent Ken Livingstone is seeking a third term of office but looks set for a strong challenge from Conservative candidate Boris Johnson.

The Lib Dems will be looking to maintain their third place position and, if possible, improve on the 14 per cent of first preference support achieved by candidate Simon Hughes in 2004.

However, the party will face a tough fight to avoid being squeezed out by the more high profile Livingstone and Johnson, both better known to the public by their first names.