Shepton Mallet could be heading to the polls after two East Ward councillors resigned from the council — leaving both seats empty and residents just days to demand a vote.

Robert Heaton and Tom Makin have resigned from Shepton Mallet Town Council, sparking a 14-day window for locals to call an election. If at least ten registered voters write to Somerset Council by Tuesday 23 September, a by-election will be triggered. If not, the council can simply appoint replacements without a public vote.

A town council spokesperson thanked the pair for their time and commitment.

The vacant seats cover the East Ward of Shepton. Official letters or emails requesting an election must clearly state the elector's name, address and intention to call a vote for the vacancies. Residents can send requests by email to [email protected], or by post to The Returning Officer, Somerset Council, County Hall, Taunton, TA1 4DY.

Somerset Council will verify each request against the electoral roll. If fewer than ten are received, the seats will be filled by co-option — meaning the remaining councillors will choose who joins them.

This is your ward. If you want a say in who represents it, now's the time to act.

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