THE resignation of Tory councillor Michael Swanton from Melksham Town Council has created a vacancy in Central Ward.

Now Wiltshire Council's returning officer, Dr Carlton Brand, is inviting nominations for candidates to stand in a local by-election.

Nomination papers must be hand delivered to the returning officer by 4pm on Friday, June 14.

If a contested election takes place, it will be held no later than Thursday, July 11.

Mr Swanton, 55, resigned after being made redundant from his job at Countrywide Farmers store. He has since moved to Trowbridge to look after his mother.

He said: "I didn't think it was appropriate to stay on as a councillor in Melksham when I am no longer living and working in the town."