A VILLAGE council say there is not enough time for candidates to prepare for the local elections.

Maldon District Council requested that candidates hand-deliver their nomination papers for this year’s elections to its offices in Princes Road before 4pm on Wednesday, April 3.

Seats will be contested on Thursday, May 2.

However, Tillingham Village Council has been critical of the timetable, claiming it is too “strict” for candidates to realistically be able to return their nomination forms.

The village council clerk said: “Maldon District Council have published their election timetable today.

“There is only a short period for candidates to fill in the nomination form and return it to the council. Note the strict timetable.”

Emma Foy, director of resources at Maldon District Council, responded to the criticism, saying the timetable is the same as any other election year.

Miss Foy added: “The deadline for candidates are set by the electoral commission and the council in fact began the process earlier than usual to allow more time. If any local authorities have a problem with the timetable, they should contact me.”

For more information, go to maldon.gov.uk.