Voters have requested an election in the East and South Wards of Sidmouth Town Council following the resignations of Louise Thompson and John Rayson for personal reasons.

This means the co-option process - whereby councillors can vote on members - cannot be used in order to fill the seats.

John Rayson served on Sidmouth Town Council since 2015 and Louise Thomson since 2019.

Town Clerk, Christopher Holland said: "The Returning Officer has received the required signatures petitioning for elections for both the South and East Ward casual vacancies.

"Under current COVID legislation there are no elections in the UK until May 2021 at the earliest unless the legislation changes."

For enquiries to contact the Returning Officer at East Devon District Council [email protected].