WEST BERKSHIRE’S Liberal Democrats have began their campaign to overpower the Conservative majority in next year’s district and town council elections.

The first of 15 candidates who will challenge the Tories for their seats on the councils have been selected.

Lib Dem leaders believe they can win back West Berkshire outright following their success in the recent Thatcham West by-election.

Among the challengers is Bucklebury’s Almona Choudhury, who said: “I relish the opportunity to stand in the Bucklebury Ward and bring real and meaningful change to the community in which I live.”

Cllr Lee Dillon, leader of the opposition on West Berkshire Council, added: “Our opposition on WBC has highlighted how unfair local government cuts have been and, by getting candidates in place so early, it shows we are ready to step up and take back control of the council.”