A LONG serving councillor is standing down after 42 years — and could be opening up the way for a husband and wife team.

Conservative Les Carter, who represents Adel and Wharfedale on Leeds City Council, would have been due for re-election in May, but he has decided the time is right to leave the council.

Ward members have now voted to adopt a new candidate — Caroline Anderson, who is married to another Adel and Wharfedale councillor Barry Anderson (both pictured).

Cllr Carter said: “I am delighted the ward has chosen to adopt Caroline Anderson as our council candidate. Caroline has worked hard in the ward for many years, alongside her husband and has acted as my agent in a number of elections.

“I couldn’t be making way for anyone better.”

Mrs Anderson said: “I am sorry Les Carter is standing down, he has served in a number of prominent positions on the council and has also served as the Lord Mayor of the city which I know a lot of people will remember.

“I will be working hard to get elected to the council and I am pleased ward members have shown faith in me by adopting me as their candidate.”