Labour and Conservative candidates go head-to-head in today’s by-election, as residents get the chance to elect a new town councillor. 

The polls for residents to vote on their new representative for Old Bracknell ward opened this morning at 7am. They will close at 10pm tonight when the count will take place. 

Local members have selected Guy Gillbe, 32, of Saffron Road, Easthampstead, as the Labour Party candidate, whilst the Conservative Party have selected borough councillor Dee Hamilton as its nominee. 

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The election is taking place after the ward’s previous councillor, Malcolm Tullett, stepped down from the role. 

If successful, Mr Gillbe said he will be an “active and responsive” councillor for the ward and promised to “lobby outside bodies” such as Bracknell Forest Council and Silva Homes. 

He pledged “to work on those issues I hear all the time on the doorstep” including maintenance of green spaces and walkways, parking, anti-social behaviour and litter. 

“Whatever you do, make sure to vote!” He added. 

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Cllr Hamilton said she is “very excited” at the prospect of working for the community and residents would get “an experienced councillor” who focuses on local issues. 

“If elected, I will focus on the things the town council can deliver such as maintaining and enhancing our parks and open spaces which helps keep the community happy and healthy,” she added. 

There are two polling stations open for constituents, those with electoral numbers between BM/1 – BM/1693 can vote at Easthampstead & Wildridings Community Centre on Rectory Lane, whilst residents with electoral numbers between BN/1 – BN/2495 can do so at Easthampstead Baptist Church on South Hill Road. 

The winner is expected to be announced tomorrow morning.