Voters in part of Bamber Bridge get the chance to elect a new local councillor on Thursday.

A poll is taking place in the Bamber Bridge West ward to find a representative for the area on South Ribble Borough Council.

It comes after the resignation of Paul Foster, who was also the authority’s leader until July when he was elected as the new MP for the South Ribble constituency. He later stepped down from the council after 17 years.

The polls are open between 7am and 10pm. Voters are reminded that they will need to take a valid form of photo ID with them in order to cast their ballot.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service offered each of the three candidates standing the chance to make a short pitch to voters – and this is what they had to say:

placeholder image — The Bamber Bridge West candidates: Stephen Bridge, Conservative Party [top left]; David Bollenberg, Labour Party [top right]; Paul Valentine, Liberal Democrats [bottom left] | Various

DAVID BOLLENBERG (Labour Party)

“As the fifth generation of my family to be born and bred in South Ribble, I’m very proud of my home.

“Bamber Bridge is a truly lovely place to live and bring up a family. It has a much-loved high street, inclusive community events and beautiful green spaces for adults and children alike.

“I want to be the local councillor to help residents make our community safe, happy and healthy for everyone.

“If elected, I will work with residents, listening to their concerns, views and ideas. I will be their voice in the council and work to support the community of Bamber Bridge for all.”

STEPHEN BRIDGE (Conservative Party)

“I am a veteran of the armed forces who now works with the prison service.

“I am passionate about Bamber Bridge and would like to work at sorting out the antisocial behaviour by some in the community with a greater police presence. As a dog walker, I am keen on making the parks and paths of the area well maintained.

“I would work closely with LCC and residents who have already approached me about the roads in the area.

“I will not be a councillor who just goes to meetings. My main meetings will be walking round Bamber Bridge talking to residents about what THEY think.”

PAUL VALENTINE (Liberal Democrats)

“If elected on Thursday, I will be a fresh, local voice for our community. Briggers tell me they feel neglected – they don’t see councillors outside of elections.

“Lib Dems are community champions. I will keep in touch all-year-round with regular leaflets and surgeries.

“My campaigns include reducing speeding, proper pothole repairs, better youth services and new bus shelters.

“Residents are struggling and want leaders that ‘get it’. Voters aren’t ready to forgive Tory failures, but they’re angry with Labour for slashing Winter Fuel Payments. I will campaign inside and outside of the council for a higher threshold and more support.”