Former Lib Dem Mayor to challenge Labour in Podsmead by-election

Gloucester Liberal Democrats have announced their candidate for the forthcoming by-election in Podsmead ward.
Experienced former councillor and ex-Mayor of Gloucester Sebastian Field will be the challenger to Labour.

The by-election has been caused by the sudden resignation of the Labour city councillor for the area, Deborah Smith.

Sebastian Field, who served Kingsholm and Wotton for nine years until 2016, said: "I am delighted to have been selected by the Liberal Democrats. Podsmead is a wonderful community and I will do my very best to represent the area well.

"I am already working hard for Podsmead, reporting issues and talking to residents about their concerns."

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester Liberal Democrats, said: "Sebastian will make an excellent councillor for Podsmead.

"He has the experience and energy to succeed and make a difference for all residents. I hope Podsmead residents support him - he has my backing."

There will be two by-elections in Gloucester in the coming months. The other is in Barnwood ward where Councillor Lise Noakes sadly died after a short battle with cancer. The date of the elections has yet to be announced.

Councillor Declan Wilson, Liberal Democrat deputy group leader, added: "The Liberal Democrats are on the up.

"We just had our best ever local election results, gaining over 700 councillors, and this was followed by an historic result in the European elections, winning 16 MEP seats including two in this South West region.

"We will be fighting hard to win Podsmead."