LYME Regis voters will go to the polls again in the next few months after yet another councillor quit.

Coun Daryl Turner stepped down from the council with immediate effect earlier this week after sending his resignation notice to Mayor Sally Holman.

Coun Turner will continue in his role as a West Dorset district councillor and Dorset county councillor.

West Dorset District Council will now advertise the vacancy, and if ten or more electors request it, a by-election will be held in the spring to fill the seat.

Lyme Regis Mayor, Coun Sally Holman said: “Coun Turner has served Lyme well during his almost 11 years on the town council and made many significant contributions to important projects in the interests of residents and visitors, for which I thank him on their behalf.

“I am disappointed that he is resigning but pleased that he will continue to serve on the district and county councils as an advocate for Lyme Regis.”

Town clerk John Wright confirmed notice will be given as of February 24 that a casual vacancy has arisen in the office of councillor for Lyme Regis Town Council.

Mr Wright said: “The notice of vacancy has been displayed on the Dorset For You website but has not yet been received by the town council for display on its website and noticeboards.

“The notice states that if by March 14, 2014 a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to the returning officer at West Dorset District Council by ten electors for the town, an election will be held to fill the vacancy. Otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option. If an election is called, it will take place no later than May 22, 2014.”

The council has been plagued by controversy over the last few months following a row that erupted at a full council meeting in October which involved three councillors and one member of council staff.

During a discussion regarding the accuracy of the minutes, Coun Turner questioned the accuracy of the minutes taken by administrative officer Adrianne Mullins, and he later admitted he ‘snapped’ at her when she responded.

During the break in the same meeting, there was a heated exchange between Coun Turner and Coun Terry O’Grady which included shouting and swearing.

At the next full council meeting in November, Coun Turner issued a public apology to Mrs Mullins before leaving the meeting.