First all postal vote 'a success'

North Kesteven District Council says its first all postal by-election has been a success.

Over double the number of people cast their vote compared to equivalent elections last year.

Almost 50% of registered voters took part, compared to just 18% last year and organisers say the system has sound financial benefits too.

In the European and local elections in June all votes cast in Lincolnshire will be by post.

Alan Thomas, returning officer at the election, said: "It is more cost effective. We don't need the staff in the polling stations across the district on the day.

"There are pros and cons but on the whole it is a far more efficient way of dealing with the process."

In the election the Conservative candidate, Dawn Copeman, won, with the Liberal Democrats second and Labour third .