CHARLOTTE Barnes has stepped down as Shropshire Councillor for Bishop's Castle.

Elected in 2011 she became the ‘golden girl’ of the Liberal Democrats and was chosen to fight the Ludlow constituency against Philip Dunne in the 2015 General Election.

In a disastrous election for her party nationally, she came third behind Philip Dunne, who retained the seat, and UKIP.

She has a young family and has cited personal reasons for her decision.

A posting on her website states that she has separated from her husband Paul.

It reads: ‘Charlotte and I would like people to know we have been together for an amazing 15 years. In that time we have achieved some great things and have many happy memories. However as the saying goes all good things must come to an end. Charlotte and I have decided to separate. We have our reasons that are private and personal to us.’

The Conservatives have named Georgie Ellis as their candidate in the by-election.