THE Conservative Party candidate for the upcoming Sherborne West by-election has been selected.

Rebecca Burns will stand for ward in a Dorset Council poll after the Liberal Democrat incumbent, Matthew Hall.

Cllr Hall resigned from the council after winning an election in Exmouth, Devon, at the local elections earlier this month.

Ms Burns’ selection was confirmed by the West Dorset Conservative Association on May 13.

The lifelong Sherborne resident and award-winning business owner previously contested the ward in 2018.

She said: “Sherborne West’s electors rightly deserve a candidate who is local, driven, and who will deliver for them.

“It is also vital that residents have strong communication with their councillors, which I feel has been missing.”

READ MORE: Sherborne councillor stands down – after winning an election in Devon

She is an active member of the chamber of trade, Sherborne Future Group and The Renvezvous.

“I know what it is like to live and work in this wonderful town; I want to honour and respect its values and history, while introducing a more modern, refreshed approach to its governance and representation,” she added.

MP Chris Loder (Con, West Dorset) said: “Rebecca is well-known in the Sherborne West ward and has a wealth of experience that will serve her well when it comes to being a councillor. She has my full support and endorsement.”

Other candidates for the by-election, which has not yet been officially called, are as yet unknown. For more information on elections to Dorset Council, log on to https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/councillors-committees-elections/elections-and-voting.