Ashfield MP Lee Anderson quits as Mansfield councillor

Mr Anderson has combined the two roles since he entered Parliament as a Conservative MP in the December 2019 General Election – just seven months after he became councillor for the Oakham ward in Mansfield

He will continue in his role as MP for Ashfield and Eastwood, but his decision to step down as a councillor has triggered a by-election for May 6 – the same day as voters go to the polls in the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Nottinghamshire County Council elections.

“I was going to stand down last year so that the by-election would be held the same time as the Police and Crime Commissioner election,” said Mr Anderson.

"Elections were halted due to Covid, however.

“I didn’t want to resign and leave the area without a councillor as there was a lot of casework coming in due to the pandemic.

"I have resigned now as the local elections are going ahead in May, this means there won’t be additional huge cost to the taxpayer.

“I have used my council allowance to help the community during my time as a councillor and have thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Anyone who wants to stand as a candidate to replace Mr Anderson in Oakham can obtain a nomination pack by emailing [email protected].

Nomination papers can be submitted after March 29 but before 4pm on April 8.

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The run-up to the election will adopt the following timetable: Thursday, April 8 - close of nominations for candidates (at 4pm); Friday, April 9 - statement of persons nominated to be published (by 4pm); Monday, April 19 - deadline to register to vote; Tuesday, April 20 - deadline to apply for a postal vote (by 5pm); Tuesday, April 27 - deadline to apply to vote by proxy - normal applications and non-medical emergencies (by 5pm); Thursday, May 6, polling day.

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Residents also have until April 19 to register to be eligible to vote in this year’s elections.

They can register at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or visit the Elections 2021 page at www.mansfield.gov.uk/elections/ for more information.

Alternatively, email [email protected] or contact 01623 463345.