FORMER Wigan MBC councillor Robert Bleakley has been chosen by the Liberal Democrat Party as its candidate for this month's Tyldesley ward bye-election.

His nomination was lodged on June 1 - deadline day and the day after Mr Bleakley completed a three year ban from holding office imposed by the Standards Board.

Liberal Democrat leader, Cllr Richard Derricutt said: "I am delighted to welcome Robert back into the team and I have no doubt that the electors of Tyldesley ward will give him their strong support.

"I am also pleased that the timing of the bye-election is such that he is able to stand.

"Constituents who live in the part of the ward which used to be in his ward of Hindsford are continually asking when he is coming back.

"They remember him as a conscientious councillor who was always prepared to listen to their problems and to give unlimited time to solving them."

And Mr Bleakley said: "I am delighted that my colleagues have shown their faith in me by selecting me.

"I am also looking forward to serving my constituents once again - hopefully as their councillor.

"The date of the bye-election has enabled me to stand a year earlier than I was expecting and I very much welcome the opportunity.

"Residents who knew me when I was their councillor will know that I have always worked hard on their behalf and I will continue to do so.

"I wish to thank my colleagues for their confidence."