ANYONE WISHING TO join in the race for the vacant Elgin City North ward seat on the Moray Council can pick up nomination papers from today.

The vacancy left by the surprise resignation of independent Sandy Cooper just four days after his election earlier this month has brought about the by-election on Thursday, July 13.

With the newly installed joint Conservative and Independent administration having an overall majority of just two, the by-election takes on added importance and could have a major impact on the future direction of the local authority.

The SNP will hope that the by-election reopens a door for their former ward councillor Patsy Gowans, who was narrowly beaten last time – however, she will have a battle on her hands with the overall first-preference votes in the ward narrowly favouring the Conservative candidate last time around.

Nomination forms are now available from the election office at Moray Council HQ or by telephoning 01343 563334 between 10am and 4pm on weekdays.

Completed forms must be lodged in person and by appointment to the election office by 4pm on Monday, June 12.