Three candidates are preparing to square off for a vacant seat on the Shepton Mallet Town Council.

Stepping up to the electoral challenge are Janet Reilly, representing Future Shepton-Working Together for Shepton, Amber Smithwick of the Liberal Democrats, and David Swain from the Conservative Party. The trio are set to contest the West Ward seat, a vacancy that emerged following the resignation of Councillor Sharon Hale.

Prospective voters should mark their calendars for critical deadlines ahead of the election:

• If you're yet to register to vote, you have until 13 June to complete the process - a simple step that can be conveniently accomplished online.
• Postal vote applications are open until 5pm on 14 June, while the deadline for proxy votes stands at 5pm on 21 June.
• A reminder for those intending to cast their vote in person at a polling station: photo ID is mandatory. Acceptable forms include passports, driving licenses, or even older person's bus passes. You can view the full list of suitable identification here: electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID. Rest assured, even out-of-date ID is acceptable, provided it's a recognisable representation of you and the name corresponds with your voter registration. If you find yourself without the necessary ID, don't fret - you can apply for the FREE Voter Authority Certificate (VAC). But act fast, as the application deadline is 21 June. Applications can be conveniently made online, by post or in person.

The election itself will take place on Thursday 29 June.

So mark your calendars, prepare your IDs, and gear up to make your voice heard this June.