By-election called for Frome after councillor resignation

A by-election has been called in Frome to fill a town councillor vacancy in Market Ward, following Mel Usher’s resignation last month.

If more than one candidate applies for the role, the election will take place on 9th October.

Cllr Usher had represented Market Ward since 2011 and was a founding member of the Independents for Frome, the group currently serving on the town council. During his time on the council, he played a key role in major local developments, including the modernisation of the Cheese and Grain, the purchase and relaunch of Frome Town Hall, the formation of Fair Frome, and efforts to save the football club.

He said, “Having moved from the town (admittedly only three-quarters of a mile away), I have found it increasingly difficult to keep up with what is happening. I cannot be as involved in day-to-day affairs as much as I once was.”

An election pack can be downloaded from the Frome Town Council website. Nomination papers may also be obtained in person from the offices of the Returning Officer.

Nomination papers must be delivered by hand to the Returning Officer, Electoral Services, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5BT, between 10am and 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm on any working day from the date of publication of this notice (excluding bank holidays), but no later than 4pm on Friday 12th September.

Somerset Council Electoral Services will publish a statement of persons nominated on 15th September.