A SURPRISE by-election at Penistone Town Council has faced funding issues - with a decision made to not send out informative polling cards in hope of saving around £5,000.

The election next Thursday has been called after Lisa Cork resigned from her position.

In the case of a resignation a by-election is not needed, however electors can call for one, with ten people needed to request for it to come into action.

This unexpected election is now causing issues with the town council’s pre-planned budget, as they’ve had to set aside thousands to host the election.

A decision was made to not send out optional polling cards, after it was estimated to cost an extra £5,000.

The election will be held at St John’s Community Centre on Church Street, with Reform’s Edward Dillingham, Liberal Democrat Matthew Nicholson, Labour’s Mark Slater and independent David Wood standing.