A SENIOR Stourport Labour councillor fears voters will stay at home rather than turn out for today's by-election after the Tory-run town council refused to stump up £800 to issue polling cards.

Labour group leader Councillor Reg Knott said he was worried people would think they were not entitled to vote unless they were sent a card.

The election was called to fill the vacancy in Stour and Wilden created by the death of stalwart Labour councillor Mick Grinnall - an area which covers 3,000 potential voters.

"We contacted the Electoral Commission and were told that, although there is no rule stating that polling cards have to be sent out, it is considered good practice, especially in this day and age of apathy among voters," said Mr Knoll.

"Some people, who would have been reminded of election day by having a card, will forget. Others will believe that, without a card, they cannot vote."

The town council had planned to co-opt a member until the next local elections in order to save the estimated £2,500 to £3,000 cost of holding a by-election.

That attempt was thwarted when a nomination was received for the vacancy.

"Once an election had been called for I believe we should have done it properly," added Mr Knott.

The four candidates standing are: James Millington (Independent), Michael Salter (Conservative), Nigel Tackley-Goodman (Liberal Democrat) and Gary Watson (Labour).

Anyone who is unsure of where to go to vote should call Stourport Town Council on 01299 877214 or Wyre Forest District Council elections office on 01562 732739.