Six candidates are standing to replace a Wrexham councillor who resigned after relocating to Panama.

Cllr Andrew Atkinson, who represented Gresford, was criticised earlier this year after it was revealed he had been working remotely from Central America.

Wrexham Council's lead member for children's services said he was on a working holiday while he planned his family's emigration there.

His decision to perform his senior role from over 5,000 miles away came at a time while his department was facing "significant concerns" from Care Inspectorate Wales.

The Conservative politician later stepped down from his executive board and ward roles after announcing he was making his stay permanent.

The local authority has now confirmed the names in the running to take his Gresford East and West seat in an upcoming by-election after nominations closed on Friday (October 1, 2021).

The people standing are Beryl Blackmore (Welsh Liberal Democrats), Alan Butterworth (Green Party), Aled Canter (Welsh Labour), Charles Dodman (Reform UK), Jeremy Kent (Welsh Conservative Party) and Aimi Waters (Plaid Cymru).

The council said the by-election would take place on Thursday, October 28.

Anyone who wishes to vote is encouraged to apply to the electoral registration office at Wrexham's Guildhall by Tuesday, October 12.

Applications can be made online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.