A move by two town councillors to seek an election to fill a vacant council seat has been branded a political ploy that could hinder democracy.

Following the resignation of Keswick town councillor Peter Price last month, Labour members Denstone Kemp and Tony Lywood gathered the 10 signatures necessary to call a by-election in west ward.

They publicised the move in the town.

Had no election been called, council members could have selected a replacement through co-option.

Concerns were raised by fellow councillors that the move could make the town council seem like a political body, putting off potential candidates.

Councillor Duncan Miller said: “I see us as being a team of individuals acting as a support team for our community.

“I sincerely hope that the political manner by this party doesn’t put off individuals from coming forward to be part of a community support team for the people who pay precept in Keswick.

“If there’s going to be an election I hope there’ll be more than one person standing.

“Perhaps we might have a vibrant election.”

Coun Andrew Lysser said: “If I thought Keswick Town Council was even remotely politically based I certainly wouldn’t be here.

“We are a community council.

“The more people who stand the better.”

Keswick mayor David Burn said: “If nobody else stands we have one person who’s been chosen by two people instead of on the say so of 11 people.”

But Coun Lywood said: “The idea that calling an election is contrary to democracy is ridiculous.

“We are on here simply as supporters of the town.

“Whatever happens the town comes first.

“The process simply was we wanted an election.”

Coun Martin Pugmire added that an election brought the advantage that nobody would feel unfairly rejected as they might if multiple people apply for co-option.

He added: “We can all think of places where here are party political issues. I don’t think that’s the case here.”

Nominations close on November 4.

Anyone wanting more information about the role can contact town clerk Lynda Walker.

If there are two or more candidates, polling will take place on December 1.