There is a vacancy on Malmesbury Town Council after Coun William (Bill) Blake announced his resignation.

Coun Blake has stood down to move to Hampshire after seven years as a councillor.

The mayor, Coun John Gundry, said: “I shall remember him for his probity, his considerable chairing skills and his dry humour.

“Also personally because he welcomed me to the council when I was elected.

“On behalf of all the councillors and town hall staff I wish Bill every happiness in his new home in Hampshire.”

If, by March 27, a request for an election has been made by ten Malmesbury residents to the Returning Officer an election will be held to fill the vacancy, otherwise it will be filled by co-option.