A CHARITY worker and former probation officer is to stand for the Labour party in a council by-election.

Michael Pavlovic, 53, has been chosen to fight the by-election in Hull Road ward.

The seat has been vacated by Labour’s David Levene.

Mr Pavlovic said: "I’m convinced we can retain this seat and if elected I shall make sure I represent all constituents. It’s vital that Labour remains the largest party on York Council and then wins a majority in two years time.

"The coalition is not dealing with the problems of the high rent, low wages economy that affects the city. They are not building enough houses.

"They are also sitting on their hands when it comes to dealing with air pollution, a problem that is killing the elderly and causing asthma in young children.

"York cannot afford another two years of a coalition that does nothing."

Mr Pavlovic, who now runs his own company advising charities, is the fundraising and events co-ordinator for the York Labour Party.

He was born in Halifax but has lived in York for the past 22 years working as a probation officer and then as director of housing charity YACRO.

York Labour Party chair William Owen added: "Michael was chosen from a very high quality group of candidates. I am sure he will make an outstanding councillor.’

Hull Road ward is represented three members, and at the last election Labour won all three.