Gloucester Liberal Democrats have announced their candidate for the forthcoming by-election in Westgate.

Charity worker and local resident Rebecca Trimnell will be the challenger to the Conservatives in the vote- due to take place in a few weeks' time.

It was triggered by the resignation of Conservative councillor Dawn Melvin who has stepped down from Gloucester City Council after seven years due to "private family reasons".

Rebecca lives in the ward a stone's throw from Gloucester Cathedral with her family, including her 18-year-old daughter who is studying for her A-levels.

She works for a charity helping people with dementia and has previously worked in social care, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, helping some of the city's most vulnerable.

The trained Samaritan volunteer and a mental health first aider said she is "delighted" to have been selected to stand.

"I have lived in the Westgate area for over a decade and know this part of Gloucester really well," she said. "Westgate is a wonderful community, and I will do my very best to represent the area well.

"I have a strong record in voluntary work, and I am passionate about helping some of the most vulnerable in our community.

"I also care deeply about our local environment, which is why I fought to save the conifer trees near King's School and campaigned against building housing at Hill Farm."

Councillor Declan Wilson, chair of Gloucester Liberal Democrats, said: "Rebecca will make an excellent councillor for Westgate.

"She knows the area well and has the experience, knowledge and energy to make a real difference to the residents of Westgate.

Rebecca was 127 votes from being elected to represent Westgate in 2021 but lost out to Ms Melvin who is a director at Gloucestershire Airport and Absolutely Publishing & Media.

The other candidates for the by-election have not been announced.