ILMINSTER Town Council has formally declared three vacancies, giving the opportunity for people to call an election this summer.

The vacancies have come after the recent resignations of fomer-councillors Sophie Storey, Rose Neave and Carol Goodall.

The mayor, Councillor Val Keitch said: “Declaring the vacancies is the first step to getting new Town Councillors.

"The vacancy notice says that there are currently three vacancies and that unless 10 or more people contact South Somerset District Council by June 13, 2016 to request an election the vacancies will be filled by co-option.

"It is therefore down to the people of Ilminster whether or not there is an election so I would encourage people to think carefully about what they would like and contact South Somerset District Council if they believe an election is the best way forward.”

The official announcement, issued by town clerk Joy Norris, said: "Notice is hearby given in accordance with Section 87 of the Local Government Act 1972 that three vacancies have occured on the Ilminster Town Council."

Ilminster electors who wish to request an election should make sure that their written request is addressed to the Proper Officer at South Somerset District Council, Council Offices, Brympton Way, Yeovil, BA20 2HT and is received by 13 June 2016