MORE than 500 councillors have been elected to town and parish council across South Somerset, without a vote even being cast.
When there are the same number of candidates as vacancies, or fewer candidates, they are automatically elected into the roles.
The largest council that will be represented by unelected members is Ilminster, with 13 candidates vying for the 15 available positions.
The new council will consist of Philip Burton, Jane Dewick, Michelle Gunn, Vernon Higgins, Matt James, Val Keitch, Ian Mackillop, Andrew Shearman, Stuart Shepherd, Roger Swann, Leanne Taylor, Fran White and Len Wilcock.
In total 503 councillors will occupy seats following uncontested elections.
Some of these are for a whole town, such as Ilminster, and some are for villages, including South Petherton, Horton, Ashill and Buckland St Mary.
Meanwhile, some are for a single ward, just part of a town council - such as the Shepherd's Lane ward of Chard Town Council which will be represented by Cllr Andy Kenton.
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