Veronica Afrin during her year as Mayor

She’s served Preston since 1979 but now one of its most recognisable councillors has decided to call time on her political ambitions.

Veronica Afrin, who represents the St Matthews ward, was first elected under the old boundary system in Deepdale.

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Since then she’s been campaigning for and representing the residents of the city – dubbing herself a ‘Prestonian through and through’.

Cllr Afrin, 79, currently holds the cabinet post of leisure and culture.

She says she hopes the groundwork is being laid for Preston to one day bid to be the European capital of culture.

Veronica Afrin on the Harris Flights

Reflecting on her 38 years in local politics, she says it is the people she will miss most – both those she works with on the council and those in the community in which she works.

She said her decision not to stand again was driven mainly by age.

Leaving politics behind she wants to spend more time with her family and also do some travelling, particularly to America – where she has promised to stand on Broadway and sing ‘If Only They Could See Me Now’.

Veronica Afrin

Related: Who wants your vote in the local elections?

Standing for election to replace Veronica in the St Matthews ward are:
Jade Marie Morgan (Labour)
James Shuttleworth (Conservative)

Did you ever have any dealings with Cllr Afrin? Let us know in the comments below and you can leave your tributes below