THE candidates for a by-election following a councillor’s sudden death have been announced.

Simon Cronin died last month, less than a week after he had been re-elected as the Nunnery ward’s city councillor for the third time.

Now, it has been confirmed that four candidates will compete for his seat.

Fellow Labour Party member Elaine Willmore is among those in the running at the by-election, due to be held on Thursday, July 20.

Also standing for election is the Scott Butler of the Liberal Democrats, independent candidate David Carney and the Conservative Party’s Allah Ditta.

READ MORE: Tributes paid as councillor dies less than a week after being re-elected

Tributes poured in following Mr Cronin’s death, aged 64 following a short illness, after it was announced by Worcester City Council on May 11.

Just days earlier he had been re-elected with a majority of 330 votes.

He held the Nunnery seat for the past 16 years, having been first elected in 2007.

Colleagues and loved ones described Mr Cronin as hardworking and formidable.

Managing director of Worcester City Council, David Blake, said: "Simon was respected and well-liked by many of the staff who worked with him over the years.

“During an age when politics can get a bit heated, Simon was always the calm voice of reason and his warm and friendly approach will be greatly missed by everyone.

“We would often stop and chat when we bumped into each other on the High Street and it is incredibly sad that Worcester has lost such a kind and dedicated politician."

His niece, Natalie Cronin, added: "Simon was a greatly respected member of the community, a wonderful friend to many and a dearly loved brother, uncle and great uncle. He will be so sadly missed."

Poll cards will be despatched on Friday, June 30 and the last date to register to vote is 11.59pm on Tuesday, July 4.

The deadline for postal applications is Wednesday, July 5, and postal votes will be despatched on Friday, July 7.

Polling day will take place between 7am-10pm on Thursday, July 20.