LIBERAL Democrat stalwart Marie Kirkham has decided to retire from South Ribble politics.

The prominent politician, who has represented the Leyland St Ambrose area for 16 years, has decided to quit after suffered a string of heart attacks - the most recent being while on holiday in Spain last month.

She received treatment there before being rushed home.

Before that, she had suffered a heart attack in November and had not attended a council meeting since.

Mrs Kirkham, 67, said: "I have enjoyed working for St Ambrose ward. I have worked for them for a long time but by health has meant it is time for someone else to come in.

"I am sure the residents will vote Liberal Democrat in May because we don't just win there, we walk it every time."

Preston's Liberal Democrat leader Neva Orrell paid tribute to her hard-working colleague.

She said: "Marie has been an excellent councillor and I can't speak highly enough of her. We are very sorry to lose her."

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