THE clerk of Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council is set to head off on a summer expedition with a difference - to Azerbaijan with love.
Because clerk Damian Boddy is to give up his duties in the two villages for a two-month project in the capital of the former Soviet state, Baku.
He told the Warrington Guardian that he will be working with an American company to develop local government in the eastern bloc nation.
He said: "I have been to Baku before but this will be an exciting and interesting experience.
"They are developing local government systems over there and want someone to help with planning and financial development.
"And I have been involved in local authorities for many years."
The country is making tentative steps towards democracy since the break up of the Soviet Union in 1991 and Mr Boddy says he is looking forward to the work.
He added: "There were some elections last year but they do not live in the culture of democracy.
"It will be a real challenge."
He will then go back for two more weeks early next year.
The work, which is in consultation with the British Embassy, is with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) - which is a non-profit making organisation.
His parish council work will be done by new financial assistant Amanda Riley until he returns in early August.
Mrs Riley has worked as a parish council clerk at two other parish councils before.
