A vacancy on Dorchester Town Council has been advertised, with a June 19 deadline for electors to call for a by-election.

It follows the resignation of East Ward councillor Tony Lyall, who handed in his notice after falling out with the ruling Liberal Democrat group and resigning from the party.

He claimed at the time that the party had "lost the plot" over its handling of the redevelopment of the Municipal Buildings – also known as the Corn exchange – including building new offices for council staff, which it then decided not to occupy.

To prompt a by-election, 10 or more electors who are registered in the East Ward will need to make a request to the Returning Officer at Dorset Council before the June 19 deadline.

If there is no request for a by-election to be held, the council will be able to fill the vacancy by co-option, meaning existing councillors will be able to select the successful candidate from applicants.

If a by-election is needed, it will take place no later than August 21.