SARAH Hughes has been chosen as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the Ashfield ward by-election to Otley Town Council on May 5.

Ms Hughes is a former member of staff at Ashfield School. She hopes to join the three serving Lib Dem Councillors, Gareth Dibble, Tom Featherstone and Sylvia Thomson to work together for Otley and the ward.

The Liberal Democrat selection panel member and Otley Councillor, Penny Robinson said: “The panel unanimously judged Sarah to be an excellent candidate. I look forward to working with her.”

Ms Hughes said her priorities for action were continuing to ensure safer streets, improving provision for families and children and supporting groups that make a difference in the community.

In her message to voters she said: “I love living in Otley. An artist and teacher, I have recently retired from eight years as a teaching assistant at Ashfield School. I am keen to get involved in the town in different ways. I am working with the community to get the Weston Play Park refurbished and managing the building at Beech Hill Church on Westgate.

"As your councillor I would listen to your concerns, working hard for Otley. I am proud of what the Liberal Democrat Town Council has achieved and would support it to do even more. In particular, I want to see safer roads and, as a mum of three who all attended Prince Henry’s, I want to see more facilities for young people.”

Colin Campbell, Liberal Democrat City Councillor, said: "I know of Sarah’s passion for helping the community and of her work with Ashfield families over many years. We have already had productive discussions about how we can work together."

Liberal Democrat Town Councillor, Tom Featherstone, added, “I am delighted that Sarah has been chosen and I am thrilled at the prospect of working with her to get a great deal for Otley and Ashfield.”

Leeds City Council has announced the full list of candidates standing for election this year.

The list of candidates standing can be seen at https://www.leeds.gov.uk/your-council/elections/leeds-city-council-elections, while the candidates for Otley and Horsforth Town Councils can be seen at https://www.leeds.gov.uk/your-council/elections/parish-and-town-council-vacancies.

Proxy voting can be applied for via www.leeds.gov.uk/elections. The deadline for applications to vote by proxy is 5pm on Tuesday, April 26.

The elections team can be contacted to address any issues using the helpline at 0113 222 4411 or by emailing electors@leeds.gov.uk.