FORMER Preston councillor Veronica Afrin is predicting a 'nasty fight' in the campaign for a key council seat.

Mrs Afrin, who resigned from her St Matthew's ward seat last month after being declared bankrupt, was re-selected by the Labour Party after the order was annulled.

She will now stand in the October 1 by-election, facing candidates from all three major parties.

Independent candidate Paul Malliband is hoping to cause an upset in St Matthew's, while the Conservatives field Elaine Pugh.

Liberal Democrats have put forward Anna Riedel, the woman behind Moor Park Councillor Michael Moulding's successful election campaign.

Mrs Afrin said: "Judging by the actions the Liberal Democrats have already taken, it appears this election is going to be very nasty. But we will fight it. The voters deserve better. This election shouldn't have had to take place because my bankruptcy order has been annulled.

"It has been an horrendous time for me."

Council leader Peter Rankin asked other parties not to take part in the election, in a bid to save council money.

Lib Dem leader Bill Chadwick said: "We have an excellent candidate." Conservative leader Joe Hood added: "We believe we can win."

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