Rachel set to replace mum on the council; POLITICS: Labour councillor makes way for daughter.

Byline: By Fiona Scott POLITICAL EDITOR

LIKE mother, like daughter ... Margaret and Rachel Lancaster look set to start a political dynasty on Coventry City Council.

Mum Margaret is a long-standing Labour councillor who is to retire in May at the age of 65 after 16 years on the council.

She wants to make way for younger candidates - and the Labour party chose her daughter Rachel to fight the Holbrooks seat.

It is one of the biggest Labour strongholds in the city, so Rachel is likely to follow directly in her mum's footsteps.

Cllr Lancaster said: "I have enjoyed it, particularly the constituency work, with Holbrooks people.

"I was born in Holbrooks, went to school in Holbrooks, worked in Holbrooks, I love Holbrooks."

She will continue to be Coventry North-west MP Geoffrey Robinson's constituency agent - a role she's held for 37 years, "lasting more than many marriages".

Her proudest moments include seeing the Ricoh Arena built and the Shopmobility scooter scheme firmly established.

Colleagues have paid warm tributes - with Labour leader John Mutton thanking her for being the person "who stopped me swearing".

She said: "I think in the council chamber you need to conduct yourself with decorum and dignity.

John Mutton is so able he doesn't need to swear."

Rachel, aged 36, manages the charity Holbrooks Community Care Association which gives training, advice and help with getting people back to work.

A mother of three, she's married to family key worker David Womble.

She said: "It's difficult, with a mum who is involved in politics, not to be. From the age of four I have leafletted, been to rallies, canvassed, and been in the background and supported."

CAPTION(S):

UNITED ... Councillor Margaret Lancaster (left) and daughter Rachel.