Mark Blackburn - the local candidate for Abbey Road

11.48.39pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 27th Mar 2007

LibDem candidate Mark Blackburn lives locally and would be a more independent voice on the Council

Local Liberal Democrats have chosen Mark Blackburn as the party's candidate for the council by-election in the Abbey Road ward on Thursday 3rd May.

Mark, who lives in the ward, will be a more independent voice on the Conservative-dominated Council - and his background as a local small businessman will bring a wealth of experience to decision-making.

Commenting on his selection, Mark said, "The Conservatives like to tell you how great they are, but in January the Council finished bottom of London's schools league table. They have a very weak record on recycling - and they send some of it all the way to China!"

He continued, "And did you know that the Council sells 36,000 residents' parking permits, but only gives us 32,000 spaces?

"The Tories have been in power in Westminster for decades. They are tired and need a wake-up call... and local people need a more independent voice representing them on the Council."

Mark is totally committed to fighting plans to build private football pitches on Regent's Park. He said, "I am absolutely 100% against the concreting over of parts of Regent's Park. The park is a precious place and must be defended."

Voters are being offered three positive reasons to vote Liberal Democrat on 3rd May:

• Our candidate, Mark Blackburn, lives in Abbey Road ward. He knows the area because it is his home.

• Tories have a 35-seat majority on the Council. With just one seat up for election on 3rd May, elect a more independent voice - and not just yet another Tory.

• Mark is a local small businessman. He will bring a wealth of experience to the Council.

Vote Liberal Democrat on Thursday 3rd May for a Councillor who lives locally, who listens and who gets things done.