Farron praises Councillor Mary Orr as she steps down following medical advice

Mary was first elected to represent Levens ward in a by-election in 2011, following the untimely death of long serving councillor Brenda Woof. Mary was re-elected in 2012, but has now been advised by her doctor that she should step down.

Commenting on the news, Tim said: "Mary is a wonderful person and exemplifies what our area is about. She is community spirited, passionate and caring. Mary has been a superb councillor and has acted as a strong voice for her local community. Residents of Levens, Heversham and Brigsteer can be proud of her achievements: bringing an Age UK village agent to the area, securing funding for the village wheels scheme to operate in local villages and being part of the team that has frozen council tax for four years running. I want to thank her for her service and I know she will continue to play a key part in community life."

The election will be held on Thursday 17th October.