Residents given chance to request elections

Residents have been given the chance to call for elections to be held in two seats following the death of a respected Telford councillor.

Councillor Ernie Dabbs held seats on Oakengates Town Council’s Wombridge ward and also for the St Georges West Ward of St Georges and Priorslee Parish Council at the time of his death on August 17, 2025.

He was aged 94 and “served faithfully” until his death.

Both councils have lodged public notices which give 14 days for 10 electors in each ward to request the returning officer to hold an election to fill the vacancy.

The notices were lodged on September 17 and the 14 day period for both seats ends on October 7, 2025.

If a request to hold elections are not received during the permitted time the council must then co-opt to fill the vacancy.

The Returning Officer can be contacted for further guidance by phone on (01952) 381889.

Councillor Dabbs was described by Oakengates Town Council as a “proud ‘Oakengates man’ whose “lifelong commitment to our town was truly inspiring.

“He was an active member of his church, a passionate advocate for local history, and a founder member of the Friends of Hartshill Park group.”

The town council said he worked for GKN Sankey’s, where he served as a Foreman in the tool room until his retirement.

“Ernie was well liked and respected by all who knew him. We remember him fondly as a true community man,” a statement read.

St Georges & Priorslee Parish Council recorded “great sadness” the death of James Ernest (Ernie) Dabbs at the age of 94.

The parish council said: “Ernie first became a Parish Councillor in April 2003, serving his community with dedication.

“After a short break from duties in 2015, he was re-elected in May 2019 and continued to serve faithfully until his passing.

“He will be remembered as a much-loved and respected member of the community who gave many years of service to the parish.”