VOTERS are in for a surprise when they tick the box in next month's local elections.

As part of a shake-up of the city's political wards, planned two years ago, some old wards will be scrapped and new ones created.

A University ward, a recognition by the council of the importance of the long-established institution, has been created, taking in parts of the old Central ward and part of Riversway.

A spokesman for the University of Central Lancashire said: "We are pleased to be recognised by the council and consider it an acknowledgement of the importance of the university in terms of size and contribution to the life of the city.

Wards to be scrapped include Avenham, Central, Sherwood and Preston Rural West. In their place residents will now fall into one of five other new wards.

Garrison ward takes in part of Sherwood;

College takes part of Moor Park, Sharoe Green and Sherwood;

St George's includes part of Central and part of Moor Park;

Lea includes the Lea district;

Town Centre ward swallows up Avenham, Central and Fishwick.

Along with these changes, brought in to reflect the changing population, two wards in the city will be taking part in a pilot postal voting scheme. Preston Rural North and Ribbleton, encompassing Barton, Goosnargh, Whittingham, Woodplumpton and Ribbleton, will all be sent the forms.