A by-election will be held in St Ishmaels following the sad death of incumbent Pembrokeshire County Councillor Reg Owens last month.

A Notice of Election has been published, and anyone wishing to stand for election must submit their nomination papers to the Returning Officer between March 8 and 18.

The Statement of Persons Nominated will be published following the close of nominations.

The St Ishmaels County Council ward includes the surrounding areas of Dale, Herbrandston, Marloes, St Brides, Tiers Cross and Walwyn’s Castle.

If you are interested in becoming a Councillor there is more information available on the Democratic Services page of the Council website.

Any residents not yet registered to vote have until March 27 to do so and until March 28 to apply for a Postal or April 8 for a Proxy vote. Full details are available on the Pembrokeshire County Council website.

Returning Officer Will Bramble said: “We were all deeply saddened to hear of Councillor Reg Owen’s passing. He was an incredible example of an outstanding public servant and we will miss him.

“His passing has resulted in the vacancy for St Ishmaels. I would encourage St Ishmaels ward residents to vote, and to register to vote, even if they are not yet sure they want to vote.”

Residents should note that this by-election takes place on a Tuesday, not a Thursday as is typical for most other elections.

Poll cards will be sent to electors before the election that will indicate which polling station to vote at.

Tributes were paid by Cllr Owens’ colleagues recently; described as someone who had “a passion for ensuring equal opportunities for all and supporting those who needed a voice”.

Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Council Leader David Simpson said that Cllr Owens was: “a fighter to the end.”

“Reg was well respected by all of the chamber and never held back on his views on behalf of his constituency.”

Chair of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Cllr Di Clements also paid tribute: “Cllr Reg Owens was a valued and influential member of the Park Authority for over 10 years. During that time, he was a passionate advocate for the National Park and the communities of the Dale Peninsula.

“He argued strongly for initiatives and activities that enabled people from all backgrounds and abilities to visit and enjoy the National Park and always considered the impact of any decision on staff and their well-being.”