By-election date set in Kilnhurst & Swinton East after Labour councillor’s resignation

Stuart Sansome quit Rotherham Council and Labour on September 14, the day after the party told him he was not wanted for next year’s elections.

RMBC has confirmed that a by-election will be held on Thursday, November 2, to fill the vacancy until the all-out polls in May 2024.

Potential candidates have until Friday, October 6, to submit their nomination papers to contest the Kilnhurst & Swinton East ward seat.

Residents must register to vote by midnight on October 17 if not already on the electoral register.

The deadline for new postal votes or to change or cancel existing postal and proxy votes is 5pm on October 18. The deadline for applying to vote by proxy is at 5pm on October 25.

New legislation means that voters casting their ballots at polling stations will need to show acceptable photographic ID.

The full list of approved identity documents can be found on the council’s website, and includes driving licence and passport. Expired documents can be used, provided the photograph is still a good likeness.

Residents without acceptable photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. Visit www.rotherham.gov.uk/voter-id for more information.

The result of the by-election is expected to be announced around midnight on polling day.

All 59 seats at Rotherham Town Hall will be contested in 2024. This system was imposed by government after the CSE scandal in order to strengthen the body of elected members at that time.