THE Labour candidate for the upcoming Poulton North by-election has gone on a fortnight-long holiday less than three weeks before the poll.

It is understood Ashley Pemberton left for Spain last week for two weeks – the election date is July 28.

The vote looks likely to be a close fight between Labour, who won one of the other three seats in the ward in May, and the Liberal Democrats.

Colin Oliver is hoping to win the vote for the Lib Dems having been edged out by Clr Graham Friend two months ago.

Clr Ian Marks, leader of the Lib Dems, said: “It hardly shows a dedication and enthusiasm for the people of Poulton North.

“It is very disappointing.

“Our candidate Colin Oliver works tirelessly for the people as parish council chairman, even though he is no longer a borough councillor.

“He is still taking on mountains of case work for people.

“Out hope is that the kicking we got at the local elections is now behind us and people will do the right thing and vote for a man who works tirelessly for the community and has done a huge amount of good for Poulton North.”

A spokesman for Warrington North Labour party, said: “This holiday was booked and paid for more than sixmonths ago, long before any costly by-election called by the Lib Dems.

“Ashley has made a commitment to Poulton North and will continue working and fighting long-term for the very best for this community, and not just focus on a few short weeks of an election campaign.”

The four candidates to fight the election in Poulton North will be James Ashington (UKIP), Mark Chapman (CON), Colin Oliver (LD) and Ashley Pemberton (LAB).

The by-election was called following the resignation of Clr Sharon Wilson (LD) due to work commitments and is expected to cost around £10,000.