Summary of Councillor Resignation

Desmond Clarke, a newly elected Reform UK councillor for Newark West in Nottinghamshire, resigned from his position less than a week after winning the election on May 1st. His resignation triggers a by-election for the Newark West division.

Reasons for Resignation

Mr. Clarke cited his inability to fully dedicate himself to representing the people of Newark West while simultaneously pursuing his career in social care, which he described as a passion.

Election Results and Impact

The election results in Newark West were as follows:

• Desmond Clarke (Reform UK): 909 votes (elected, now resigned)
• Keith Girling (Conservative): 756 votes
• Rosemary Johnson Sabine (Liberal Democrats): 164 votes
• Lucy Olivia Spoors (Green Party): 193 votes
• Paul Taylor (Labour Party): 508 votes

Voter turnout was 28.55%. Reform UK won an overall majority in Nottinghamshire's council elections, so Clarke's resignation does not affect the power balance.

By-election

A by-election will be held in the Newark West division, with a typical six-week election period, though the exact date is yet to be set.