A CLOSE vote is expected in a by-election in Derwentside District Council's Benfieldside ward, in the Blackhill and Shotley Bridge area, near Consett.
The by-election has been caused by the resignation of Councillor John Davies who, as a Durham County Council cabinet member, was unable to devote sufficient time to his responsibilities as a district councillor.
The last time that an election was fought in the ward, in 1999, three councillors were elected - two Labour and one independent. On that occasion, the independent topped the poll.
Labour's candidate this time, Tom Clark, just missed out on election in 1999 after polling 586 votes, compared with third-placed Labour Party colleague coun Davies, on 628.
Also in the 1999 election, the Liberal Democrat candidate polled 479 votes and the Conservative Party candidate received 286 votes.
Standing for the Liberal Democrats this time will be Keith English. The Independent contestant will be 1995 candidate Donald Love and the Conservatives will be represented by Peter Carr.
Voters will go to the polls in the by-election on Thursday, May 2.
Anyone who requires a postal vote must apply to Derwentside District Council by Wednesday, April 24.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article