In addition to participating in the national poll called by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, residents of Clitheroe’s St Mary’s ward will also have the opportunity to take part in a Ribble Valley Borough Council by-election. This by-election has been triggered by the resignation of sitting councillor Stewart Fletcher, who has decided to embark on a new chapter of life in Scotland. The Progressive Liberal has relocated to a residence near Stornoway on the remote island of Lewis, while his wife, Kerry, has commenced a new job at an island hospital.
The role of borough councillors is significant as they are responsible for making important decisions regarding the management of various services, including planning, recycling and refuse collection, as well as sport and leisure facilities. Therefore, the upcoming by-election holds considerable importance for the residents of St Mary’s ward.
Scheduled for July 4, the by-election will provide voters with the opportunity not only to cast their votes for their Member of Parliament in the new Pendle and Clitheroe constituency but also to select Mr. Fletcher’s successor on Ribble Valley Council. The polling station for St Mary’s ward will be located at Clitheroe Parish Church on Church Street, and a list of candidates will be made available on the council’s website starting from 4 pm on June 10.
It is important to note that individuals opting to vote in person must be registered to vote and be prepared to present valid photo identification, such as a passport, driving licence, or bus pass. This requirement follows a recent change in electoral law aimed at enhancing the security and integrity of the voting process. For residents who do not possess one of the accepted forms of ID, there is an option to apply for a free photo-ID known as a voter authority certificate.
To obtain a voter authority certificate, applicants must provide a photograph, full name, date of birth, address at which they are registered to vote, and their national insurance number or another form of proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, bank statement, or utility bill. It is important to adhere to the deadline for applying for a voter authority certificate, which is set at 5 pm on Wednesday, June 26.
Participation in the by-election is not merely a civic duty but also a powerful tool for residents of St Mary’s ward to influence the trajectory of their local government. By exercising their right to vote, individuals in the community can actively contribute to shaping the future direction of their local area and ensure that their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
In a democracy, the active engagement of citizens is fundamental to the functioning of government and the preservation of democratic principles. Each vote cast in the by-election holds significant weight in determining the outcome and ultimately shaping the policies and priorities of local authorities. Whether it’s advocating for improved public services, addressing community concerns, or championing specific issues, every vote contributes to the collective voice of the electorate.
Furthermore, by participating in the electoral process, residents demonstrate their commitment to democratic values and civic responsibility. It is through active participation in elections that individuals can hold elected representatives accountable for their actions and advocate for the changes they wish to see in their communities.
Moreover, by casting their votes, residents have the opportunity to elect representatives who reflect their values, priorities, and aspirations for the future. These elected officials will be entrusted with making decisions that directly impact the lives of residents, from local infrastructure projects to public safety initiatives.
Ultimately, the success of democracy depends on the active involvement of citizens in the electoral process. By participating in the by-election, residents of St Mary’s ward can help shape the future of their local government, ensure their voices are heard, and contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive community for all. Every vote counts, and by exercising their democratic right, residents can make a tangible difference in their local area.