Polling stations are opening in and around Leiston for today’s district council by-election, which features an all-female candidate list.

The successful candidate will become one of the ward’s two district councillors, taking the seat, which became vacant following the resignation of former Conservative councillor Ian Pratt.

Notice was given last month that a new councillor was being sought to represent the town at Suffolk Coastal District Council, inviting people to make nominations.

The four candidates are:

•Sammy Betson (Independent)

•Freda Casagrande (Labour)

•Jules Ewart (Liberal Democrats)

•Susan Geater (Conservative)

Polling stations are open from 7am-10pm in Leiston Community Centre, the Long Shop Museum, Middleton Village Hall and Theberton Jubilee Community Hall.