Labour puts forward candidates Lee Allen and Mike Brook for Thatcham North East seats on West Berkshire Council and Thatcham Town Council

The candidates are beginning to emerge to replace Lee Dillon on West Berkshire Council and Thatcham Town Council.

Mr Dillon stood down as a councillor for Thatcham North East last week, to focus on his Parliamentary MP for Newbury role.

Labour looks to be first out of the traps, announcing a 20-year-old university student for the post.

Lee Allen has been an active member of the Labour Party for several years and is currently the communication and social media officer for Newbury Labour.

“I care deeply about the inequality facing many families and want to be a councillor to change that,” he said.

Mr Allen says he is passionate about social justice and has been actively involved in various community initiatives that aim to support vulnerable groups.

Another spot up for grabs is on Thatcham Town Council.

Mike Brook, a retired librarian, local speaker and amateur dramatic writer, is up for it for Labour.

“I value the services that local councils offer,” he said.

“The town council has an important part to play in planning. It is important that new housing is matched with new infrastructure.”

Gary Puffett, chairman of Newbury Labour Party, highlighted the significance of this by-election, saying: “A second Labour councillor on West Berkshire Council would mean we have representation in two key wards in both the east and west of the district which will help us to continue to directly serve our local communities as the party of government.”

Clive Taylor (Lab, Tilehurst Birch Copse) became the only Labour candidate in the May 2024 local elections for West Berkshire.

Candidates have until 4pm on March 26 to declare for the election on Thursday, April 24.