The re-run of the Swindon and WIltshire Police and Crime Commissioner elections is set for the summer following the controversy surrounding Conservative candidate Jonathon Seed. 

Following the election - which was won by the disbarred Seed - the police area returning officer and Wiltshire Council chief executive, Terence Herbert has said preparations are underway for a re-election to be held on August 19. 

Mr Herbert said: “The election was administered in accordance with all relevant legislation and regulations. 

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“Mr Seed has publicly indicated that he will not take up that office.

“The legislation states that after a two-month period, beginning on the day after polling day, lapses, a vacancy arises. 

“As police area returning officer, I must then hold an election within 35 days. Therefore, preparations will now begin to hold an election on August 19, 2021.”

Mr Herbert said he remains “immensely proud” of all the staff who worked across the various elections.  

Picture Courtesy of Wiltshire Council

Picture Courtesy of Wiltshire Council

“Although we would not have chosen to run another election so soon, we will ensure that a fair and accurate Police & Crime Commissioner election is once again delivered,” he said. 

“The council is working closely with the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner and Wiltshire Police and all officers and staff will continue to work hard to protect residents and make sure that our communities remain safe.

“Given that we are now following a legal process and as Wiltshire Police have asked Thames Valley Police to conduct an “investigation into the circumstances surrounding the 2021 Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner election”, it would be inappropriate for us to provide any further comment at this time.”

More to follow.