The Conservative Candidate for the upcoming Cumberland Council by-election in Wetheral has been announced.

A by-election has been called after current Wetheral councillor, Geoff Mitchell decided to step down.

The Conservatives have selected former Carlisle City Councillor, Gareth Ellis to be their candidate in the upcoming election.

A spokesperson from the Carlisle Conservative Association said: "We would like to offer our gratitude to Geoff for the work he has undertaken on behalf of the many villages that make up Wetheral ward. 

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“We are aware that changes in personal circumstances have resulted in him deciding to step down and wish him and his family well for the future. 

“We are working with Cumberland Council to facilitate the upcoming by-election”.

The by-election will be held on Thursday, October 17. A by-election has also been called in Keswick on the same day after Keswick councillor, Markus Campbell-Savours was elected as the Labour MP for Penrith and the Solway.