Three candidates confirmed for West Mainland by-election

The list of candidates standing in the forthcoming West Mainland by-election has been announced.

The candidates standing for election have been named as Barbara Foulkes, Fiona Grahame and Rachael King.  The notice of poll is now available on the council website.

Orkney Islands Council currently has two female elected members, in a cohort of 21.

Councillor Janice Annal has served on the Council since 1996.  She said: “It’s been several years since the council has had more than two female councillors and I look forward to having another woman in the chamber.

“It is predominantly more men than women that stand for election so it’s an unusual situation, but a good one as it will address the gender balance.”

Voting will take place on Tuesday 18 August between 7am and 10pm, with the count taking place in the council chamber the following day.

The by-election is taking place following the death of Alistair Gordon.

Polling cards should be arriving from Friday, July 17.