A by-election has been called in a Norfolk town amid claims the community has been left “under-represented”.

Thetford & Brandon Times: Breckland Councillor for Thetford Burrell has promised his support to Thetford Town Hockey Club. Terry Jermy . Picture: Conor MatchettBreckland Councillor for Thetford Burrell has promised his support to Thetford Town Hockey Club. Terry Jermy . Picture: Conor Matchett (Image: Archant)

Thetford Town Council tried to co-opt a new councillor for the Boudica ward.

This ward currently has two councillors, Dave Hodgkinson and Mark Robinson, but a third is needed.

A majority vote could not be reached in the council meeting to co-opt a new councillor, so there will have to be a by-election.

Breckland and town councillor Terry Jermy, who represents the Thetford Burrell ward, called for the by-election at the meeting after the co-option of a new councillor failed.

Mr Jermy said: "Residents of the Boudica Ward have been under-represented since May and the community has not had the benefit of a full slate of councillors to tackle local issues.

"I'm disappointed there will now be further delay and that tax payers will incur avoidable costs because of a by-election, which is likely to be in the region of several thousands of pounds."