FOUR candidates are in the running for a Rossendale by-election following the resign-ation of a Liberal Democrat councillor.

Cribden ward represent-ative Coun Phillip Young, who resigned in mid August, was the only Liberal Democrat on the council.

The four candidates for the September 28 poll are Kevin Bryan, BNP; Helen Marsden, Conservative; Christine Gill, Labour; and Robert Sheffield, Liberal Democrat.

Helen Marsden has lived in Rawtenstall tall her life and said: "I am approachable and will take on board the problems people in the area have.

"I want to concentrate on improving the area and to pay particular attention small things because, after all, it is the little things that irritate people.

"The town is part of a regeneration scheme and I want to make sure that its effects are lasting for future generations. Everything I do will be for the local people by a local person."

Christine Gill, who has lived in the Cribden ward for the last 27 years and serves on the governing committee at St James the Less pre-school, which she started as a playgroup with friends 25 years ago, said: "I have always had a keen interest in local issues and I am becoming more and more involved in needs such as local traffic problems and safety, and also the regeneration of Rawtenstall town centre.

"My heart is firmly rooted in the Valley and I will do my utmost to listen and act for you."

Mr Sheffield, who only entered into politics in January, said: "I am very concerned about the traffic problems. They are having a knock-on effect on the ward I am standing for. The number of traffic lights cropping up are causing concern.

"We have to target local issues for the people of Cribden. I want to make a difference, if you don't ask you don't get."

Mr Bryan lives with his partner and seven-year-old daughter in Bacup, and works as a sales manager in Manchester. He said: "I have been involved in politics from being 19-years-old and I consider myself to be a down-to-earth person who can approach people.

"I would want people to feel they can approach me about their concerns and local issues such as litter and housing and social issues. I would help anyone with a genuine problem."

Polling hours will be 7am to 10pm and all electors in the ward will have the choice of voting in a polling station or by post.