A CANDIDATE who lost out in a recent by-election believes the democratic system failed - because no voting cards were issued and many people were unaware the election was even taking place.

Claude Mickelson stood as the Trade Unionists and Socialists Against Cuts (TUCS) representative for the vacant Lydney West Ward seat on Lydney Town Council.

The turnout was a paltry 9.6 per cent with only 139 votes being cast in total.

Conservative Harry Ives was elected with a meagre 67 votes.

Claude gained 30 votes and Independent Colin Legg, 41 votes.

For the full story, read The Forester.