STUDLEY Parish Council is hoping to avoid a costly election following the sad death of Coun Mary Woodrow.
The authority has a vacancy for a councillor and chairman Coun Paul Beaman said he was looking a volunteer from the community to fill the position, which will last until the parish elections in 12 months’ time.
The last time the council had a vacancy ten residents exercised their democratic right to call for an election, which cost the authority £3,500.
If the same thing happened, given the time necessary to send out ballot papers and hold an election, the successful candidate would probably only be in position for 10 months.
“Democracy costs, but there are better ways to sort this out,” said Coun Beaman.
Any interested people should contact the parish clerk at the village hall.
The closing date for applicants is Wednesday, May 9 and if more than one person comes forward interviews will be held.
