Morgan the third candidate

A THIRD candidate for the upcoming by-election in the Shetland Central ward has thrown his hat into the ring.

The council’s former head of children’s services, Stephen Morgan, confirmed on Friday that he will submit his election papers early next week.

He joins Scott Van der Tol (formerly Dyble) and Ian Scott who had both already confirmed that they would stand again for council.

It is known that two or three other potential candidates, including the general manager of Shetland Aquaculture, David Sandison, are still considering whether to stand or not.

The by-election on 15 December was called after Scalloway stalwart, Iris Hawkins, stood down at the end of September ahead of her marriage to Magnus Hughson.

Mrs Hawkins represented the village and latterly the Shetland Central ward for 17 years.

Nomination papers must be returned to the Election Office at 4 Market Street, Lerwick, no later than 4pm on Tuesday, 22 November.

Shetland Islands Council will issue the names of all the candidates immediately thereafter.

The next local government election is in less than six months, on 3 May 2012.