The local elections in south Manchester are always a heated affair and this year is no exception. The Liberal Democrats hold all but two of the council seats up for grabs in the John Leech's constituency. Chorlton is one of the closest wards with just over 100 votes between Labour and the Lib Dems last time.
"Turnout has been falling to worrying new lows in recent years but I'm glad to see signs of more participation this year," said John Leech. "The Lib Dems have been working for years to build stronger communities in which everyone can participate and it is good to see this sort of work paying off.
"I've been canvassing across the constituency and what appears clear is the split between ourselves and Labour. The Tories and Greens look set to fight it out for third and fourth for another year.
"This election is being fought on both local and national of issues," he continued. "The Lib Dems have been pushing to reverse recent police cuts as well as campaigning for roadside collections of plastic and cardboard. However, we understand that many people will be wanting to send a message to Tony Blair and others about the way the country is being run."
