By-elections Triggered in County Durham, North Tyneside Following Councillor Resignations, Mayoral Race

Several council by-elections are scheduled across the UK following recent political changes and vacancies. In Durham's Benfieldside ward, a by-election on July 3 follows the resignation of Reform UK councillor Andrew Kilburn, who failed to declare council employment, sparking criticism over the £22,800 election cost. North Tyneside will hold by-elections on July 2 in the Longbenton and Benton and Killingworth wards after Labour's narrow mayoral victory led to vacancies, including the mayoral seat vacated by Karen Clark; Labour's slim win over Reform UK highlights tight local competition. Additionally, Adur District Council will hold a by-election on June 19 for Shoreham's Buckingham ward after the death of Labour councillor Nigel Jenner, with polling requiring voter ID. Reform UK continues to make gains nationally, winning the most seats in recent local contests, while Labour and Conservatives face losses. Voter registration deadlines and election procedures vary by area, with local authorities encouraging timely registration and providing details on nominations and voting.