Helston Town Council is searching for a new councillor after one of its members resigned citing a need for "new challenges."

The council has announced that there is a casual vacancy as it looks to fill the seat vacated by Councillor Justine Hornsby in the town's West Ward.

In her resignation letter, Miss Hornsby wrote: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a member of Helston Town Council and feel proud of the achievements which I have been a part of, but I feel that the time is right for new challenges."

Town Mayor, Councillor Mike Thomas, said: "I am very grateful to former councillor Justine Hornsby for her five years as a member of the council. She made an excellent contribution to the life of this town.

"I urge members of our local community to consider putting themselves forward for the by-election that will follow, details of which will be released soon."

There are two possible ways in which the council can find a new member, through a by-election or through co-option.

For there to be a by-election, 10 residents on the Electoral Register for the Helston West Ward must submit a request to Cornwall Council by 5pm on Friday, September 18.

If there is an election a date will be set by Cornwall Council's Electoral Services and polling cards will be sent out in the usual way, otherwise the current town councillors will select a new member to fill the vacancy by co-option.

The address for members of the electorate living in the Helston West Ward wishing to request an election is:-

Communities and Organisational Development Directorate, Cornwall Council, Room 11, Council Offices, Penwinnick Road, St Austell, PL25 5DR.