A WOULD-be Green Party councillor has withdrawn his nomination and joined the Liberal Democrats.

Student Paul Leake was to have contested the Elvet Ward in Durham City in next month's elections for Durham County Council.

He is now helping Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Carol Woods in her contest with Labour's Gerry Steinberg and Tory hopeful Nick Cartmell.

He said: "I think the Liberal Democrats stand much more chance of putting their policies on protecting the environment into action. I intend to work with the team in Durham to help Carol Woods win.''

Miss Woods said: "Paul is a real asset to us. He will be a very effective activist and is keen to help.

"He is particularly interested in developing public transport and regeneration of rural communities.

"He has just been elected treasurer of the Durham Student Union and will, I am sure, do a good job when he takes up the post in the new academic year. I am very happy to welcome him on board.

"Paul will be a great loss to the Green Party as he was treasurer and North-East region representative of the Green Party Council. Their loss is definitely our gain.''

Read the latest election news here.

Read about the issues affecting the North East here.

Updated: 16.20 Wednesday, May 16