First published on 11 May 2026. Updated 12 May 2026.
Update 12 May:
We have now received confirmation from the court that Mr Osborn has not lodged an appeal in time, therefore, he is no longer a county councillor.
We will be making the necessary arrangements to convene a by-election for the Roman Bank and Peckover division in Fenland.
Original statement published 11 May:
Following the previous statement issued on 27 April 2026, the County Returning Officer, Dr Stephen Moir, who is also the Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire County Council, has today issued an update with respect to the position of this County Council seat:
"The Roman Bank and Peckover Electoral Division is currently held by Councillor Andy Osborn. Mr Osborn is an unaligned, independent County Councillor and remains suspended from the duties of his office, following recent court proceedings and the judgement issued. Mr Osborn has advised the county council that he is appealing against the decision of the court.
"Therefore, Mr Osborn remains entitled to hold this council seat until the appeal against the judgement of the court has been discharged. This means that no vacancy for the Division can be declared at this time. Consequently, the seat will not become vacant until 15 July 2026, except where the appeal is discharged or withdrawn earlier than this date. Should Mr Osborn successfully appeal his conviction within the three-month period, he will retain his seat.
"Consequently, given that the seat remains occupied, there is no vacancy and no By Election can be called at present.”
