A councillor has been shortlisted for a lifetime legend award in an initiative which celebrates the work of councillors.

Chichester City councillor Clare Apel is in the running for the honour from the Local Government Information Unity.

The lifetime legend award recognises a councillor who has dedicated 15 or more years to serving their community.

Clare, who is a Liberal Democrat, has been a councillor since 1999.

Some 44 councillors from across England, Wales and Scotland have been shortlisted for the 15th year of the LGIU awards.

 Competition was tight with more than 350 nominations received across five categories.

Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive of the LGIU said: “With councils operating under enormous pressure, these awards are a hugely important way to champion what councillors achieve in the places we live.

"Congratulations to all the councillors nominated and shortlisted and I look forward to announcing the winners in November.”

Winners in England and Wales will be announced at the Guildhall in London on Wednesday, November 20.

 The judging panels comprise senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector. These are the only national awards to celebrate and showcase the work of individual councillors.