ONE of the people drafted in to count votes in yesterday’s election was barred from taking part in the count after concerns were raised about their political affiliations.
The Chronicle understands the Reform party lodged a complaint about the individual and, following a review, they were told their services would no longer be required for the overnight count at the Metrodome.
A spokesman for Barnsley Council said: “We were made aware that someone due to be working at the count had a political affiliation and, as per our contract, their appointment was withdrawn immediately. They did not take part in the count.”
According to the council’s website, count assistants can earn up to £18-an-hour but ‘cannot work on behalf of a candidate during an election campaign or be related to a prospective candidate’.
