PRESTON'S political arena could become a real family affair after this year's local elections.

For among the candidates standing are the spouses of three prominent councillors, who would like nothing more than to join their partners in the council chamber.

Independent councillor Terry Cartwright is hoping to get more non-partisan councillors elected this year, including his wife Joyce who is standing as a Independent Labour candidate for Deepdale.

Joyce said: "I relish the prospect of joining Terry in the council chamber in May. The treatment he has endured in not being allowed to represent the electorate of Deepdale over the past year is appalling."

Other Independent Labour candidates include Paul Malliband, who last year stood for the official Labour Party but told voters to elect someone else. He is standing in St Matthew's ward against Mayor Rose Kinsella.

The third independent hopeful is former Ribbleton Labour Party member Ron Yates, who is standing in Ribbleton.

Meanwhile, in Avenham, Margaret Marshall, wife of ex-mayor Ron Marshall, is hoping to gain another seat for the Liberal Democrats.

Lib Dem leader, Bill Chadwick, said: "Margaret is an ideal choice because she is used to being in the spotlight. She typifies our candidates, all of who we believe can win and help us to become the ruling party in this town."

And there's even a husband wants in on the political act.

Conservative councillor Jennifer Greenhalgh's husband, Stuart, is standing in Sherwood in place of Brian Parry, who has quit the council to start a life abroad.

Fellow Sherwood Conservative candidate Marie Milne is hoping to be re-elected to her post. But she is also keeping a close eye on developments in Larches, where her daughter, Julie Milne, is representing the Tories.

The Conservatives are confident at the prospect of retaining their current seats and gaining several new ones - including Greyfriars, where ex-chief executive Geoff Driver is standing as a Tory.

Coun Joe Hood said: "We have received a favourable reception in Tulketh and Greyfriars. I think we will do well, not least because the Labour Party are two years into their national term of office and the mood of the people is changing." But Council leader Peter Rankin believes it will still be his party who will be in charge come May 7.

He said: "We are confident we can retain our current seats and indeed add some more. The Labour Party is very popular and is delivering on its promises."

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