A DATE has been set for the city council by-election in Lancaster's John O'Gaunt ward.

Long-serving Councillor Paddy Kavanagh died two weeks ago, and an election for his replacement will take place on Thursday, September 28. Mr Kavanagh's widow Sheila has pledged to carry on his good work but Labour sources told The Citizen that some former councillors who lost their seats at the last election will also make themselves available for selection. It is understood that former council leader Stanley Henig is not among them.

By-elections for three places on Carnforth Town Council take place on the same day.

Nominations must be in by September 1 and papers can be collected from Democratic Services at Lancaster Town Hall.

The closing date for postal and proxy vote applications will be 5pm on Wednesday, September 13.