Electors in Marlborough will go to the polls for the second time this year when a by-election is held for the west ward of the town council on Thursday August 19.

The poll has been brought about by the resignation of Conservative councillor Stanley Radnedge, who stood down to spend more time running his building firm.

It will be a two cornered fight between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats and polliing takes place at the town hall, from 7am to 10pm.

The LibDems will be fielding seasoned councillor Steve Pascall, 73, who was previously chairman of West Berkshire unitary council before retiring to live in Marlborough with his wife Jenny. He served on the council for ten years and was its chairman in 2002.

The Tory candidate is local businessman Martin Houlden, 37, who stood as an Independent candidate in May’s General Election.

He runs his own technology business in Marlborough and until recently lived in Stonebridge Close with his wife Marie and their daughter although they are living temporarily in Burbage while seeking a new home in the town.

Mr Houlden is a trustee of the Friends of Savernake Hospital and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce.