THE candidates for next month's local elections in Winchester have been announced after nominations closed earlier this week.

Several senior members are seeking re-election to Winchester City Council in a ballot that could tip the balance of power on the authority. The Liberal Democrats are the largest party, with 26 members. The Conservatives are close behind on 22, while the authority also has five Independent councillors, and four representing Labour.

This year's elections will take place on Thursday, May 4, and feature ballots in all 19 wards in the Winchester district.

Among those taking part is council leader, Sheila Campbell, who is hoping to retain Swanmore and Newtown for the Lib Dems. Two of her cabinet colleagues, Brian Collin, in Oliver's Battery & Badger Farm, and Dominic Hiscock in St Bartholomew ward, Winchester, are also seeking re-election.

Four Lib Dems are not standing again, including the cabinet member for economy and transport, Richard Knasel. The others are John Steel, Ian Bidgood and Graham Hutton. Independent, Paul Hoare (Shedfield), is also not standing again.

* Residents who want to obtain a postal or proxy vote need to apply to Winchester City Council by 5pm on April 18. Call the authority's electoral services department on 01962 848 125 for an application form.

* For the full list of candidates for the 2006 Winchester City Council elections, see this week's Hampshire Chronicle.