A by-election is to be held in Skipton to fill a casual vacancy created on the town council following the recent death of Councillor Linda Dalton.

The by-election follows the receipt of more than the ten signatures from local electors required to trigger an election.

If more than one person is now nominated, a poll will be held in the South Ward on Thursday, April 10.

Anyone wishing to stand in the election must be nominated before the deadline of midday on Friday, March 14.

Dave Parker, chief officer of Skipton Town Council, said: “The required number of signatures were received so the council cannot now co-opt a new councillor to fill the vacancy and an election will take place instead.

“The council would encourage anyone interested in becoming a councillor to consider standing in the election. The new councillor will serve on the council until the next main elections scheduled for May 2015.”

The council is responsible for Skipton’s allotments, play areas and recreation grounds, the maintenance of closed burial grounds, churchyards, some street lighting, litter bins and public toilets. It also operates and manages Skipton Market and its town centre management team organises events and works in partnership with Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) .

Anyone who would like further information on becoming a councillor should contact the council offices at 49 High Street, Skipton, call 01756 700553 or email chiefofficer@skiptontowncouncil.gov.uk