Two high-profile names are vying for the Liberal nomination in the district of St. John’s East – Quidi Vidi.

John Abbott and Lynn Hammond were accepted as candidates at the close of nominations over the weekend.

Abbott, a former deputy minister and current CEO of the provincial branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, ran unsuccessfully for leader of the Liberal Party over the summer.

Hammond is VP of Corporate Affairs with gold mining company Anaconda and has more than 20 years of experience in senior public service communications positions in the areas of social policy and economics.

The nomination meeting is set for January 7 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in St. John’s.

Residents of the district who are 14 years of age or older and are registered members or supporters of the provincial Liberal Party by January 5 are eligible to vote.

The seat is currently held by NDP Leader Alison Coffin.