"We have to remind people that a local election does not decide the future of Tony Blair. Instead, they should use their vote as a protest against the way the city is being run." The Liberals, meanwhile, are moving out of their traditional Tuebrook stronghold to contest 29 of 30 wards. They hope their anti-bulldozer stance in areas like Kensington, Anfield, Princes Park and Picton will help cause a shock. Liberal councillor Steve Radford said: "It is striking a chord everywhere, even areas not directly affected by demolition. "People recognise it does not make sense when we have a long housing waiting list and homes can be renovated cheaply." The Conservatives are making a fresh start in Liverpool, posting 28 candidates, and say their best hope is to increase their vote in the increasingly affluent Central ward. There are also a handful of Independent, Green, Socialist Labour, UK Independence, Respect, United Socialist and British National Party representatives. What voters say Iris Thomas, 56, administrator, Tuebrook, says: "I'm voting for Steve Rad-ford, the Liberal candidate. He keeps his word and gets things done. He cares about the area, he lives there. Important are conservation, recycling, care of the elderly." Mike Cadwallader, 58, retired, city centre, says: "Local government is more important than national. The most important thing is development of the city centre. Projects promised remain incomplete because of lack of money or political will." Nick Holt, 23, structural engineer, from Aigburth, says: "I'm not going to vote because of apathy. I've not had much information. Working in the building industry, the issue most important to me is regeneration, but crime is too." Victoria Threadgold, 30, insurance worker, Mossley Hill, says: "The city is in a good position with the Capital of Culture in 2008, most things seem on track, so I'm going to vote for the Lib Dems again. The city seems to be thriving, especially where I live." | 
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