Two by-elections for Somerset Council will take place on October 23, filling vacancies that have arisen due to the passing of councillor Nick Cottle and the retirement of councillor Christine Lawrence.
Nick Cottle, who represented Glastonbury’s Liberal Democrat division, passed away in early August. Meanwhile, Christine Lawrence, the Conservative councillor for the Dunster division, announced her retirement in early September. These departures have left two seats open on the council.
Nomination notices for both by-elections have been officially published. Prospective candidates have until 4pm on Friday, September 26, to submit their nomination papers. Nomination forms are available for download from the Somerset Council website and must be returned to the designated council offices: Shape Mendip campus in Shepton Mallet for Glastonbury, and Bridgwater House in Bridgwater for Dunster.
READ MORE: Visually Impaired Woman Calls for Better Staffing at Yeovil Pen Mill Train Station
READ MORE: Community Fights to Save Historic Land Owned by Glastonbury’s Beloved ‘Egg Man’
Susannah Hart, a Conservative councillor currently serving the Glastonbury division (which includes Wick), has been managing related casework following Cottle’s death. The Dunster division, covering villages between Minehead and Williton, is currently represented by Liberal Democrat councillor Marcus Kravis, who recently advocated for council acquisition of an unfinished housing development in Minehead to provide social housing.
Voters interested in participating in these by-elections must ensure they are registered by midnight on October 7 via www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Polling station voters are required to present valid photo identification, such as a passport, driving licence, or older person’s bus pass. Expired photo ID is acceptable if the holder’s appearance remains recognizable and the name matches the registration details.
Those without eligible ID can apply for a free voter authority certificate (VAC) by 5pm on October 15 through online, postal, or in-person applications.