AN election has been called to fill a vacancy on Somerset West and Taunton Council.

The election, which will take place on Thursday, September 19, was called following the resignation of cllr Catherine Herbert.

Catherine Herbert, who was the last ever person to hold the title of mayor of Taunton Deane, resigned her seat in the Vivary ward at the end of last month.

The experienced Conservative councillor said she was quitting the council for 'personal reasons'.

Her resignation left the Conservative group with nine councillors out of 59 on the Lib Dem led authority.

After receiving nominations for the position, the council has called an election to fill the seat.

Five people have put their names forward.

The nominees are: Sharon Fussell (Con), Robert Noakes (Lab), Marguerite Paffard (Green), Derek Perry (Lib Dem), and Neil Rudram (Ind).

Notice of an election has also been served for a seat in the Norton Fitzwarren and Staplegrove Ward following the death of cllr Jean Adkins.

Nominations need to be made to the council by Friday, September 6.

If the election is contested, it will take place on Thursday, October 3.

Nomination papers can be sent to Returning Officer, West Somerset House, Killick Way, Williton TA4 4QA.