Three vacancies at town council - one in Town ward and two in Drybridge - saw six hopefuls apply at Monday evening’s Full Council meeting.

All six were in attendance and were asked by the chair, Deputy Mayor Councillor Tom Kirton if they were willing to stand in the Drybridge Ward if they were unsuccessful for town.

Once all six had been given the chance to speak and introduce themselves, they were sent out of the room and the press and the public were excluded from the conversation between sitting town councillors on who they would like to see fill the three vacancies.

On returning, Councillor Kirton asked for nominations for the Town Ward and Cllr Roger Hoggins proposed Andrew North, seconded by Cllr Garrett.

The nomination of Peter Davies by Cllr Jupp failed to gain a seconder, and Andrew North was co-opted to the seat.

He has lived in Monmouth for two years and previously lived in Caerleon and had spent six years living in America.

“I love the fact Monmouth has got advantages one of which being there are no superstores within a half hours drive, we should take advantage of that and bring people in, we have a potential powerhouse of economy that could make a lot of money,” he said.

For the two seats in Drybridge Ward, candidates chosen were Steve Wadley from Osbaston and Fiona Wilcock who has lived on the Hereford Road close to Manson’s Lane for three years. She said she was interested in conservation and allotments. “Gardening is my passion”.

Steve Wadley’s family has been in Monmouth since 1963, he joined the Forces when he was 18. and then spent time with the prison service for 11 years.

He is a director of two small businesses in ecology and security, operating mostly in Monmouthshire and the borders.

Another vacancy for the Town Ward has arisen following the resignation of Simon Jones which was reported in last week’s Beacon.