FOUR local election candidates have called for an inquiry into alleged ballot box irregularities.

The quartet all stood for election to Richmondshire District Council - which this week denied any breach of procedures had taken place.

Candidates Jack Goodwin, Chris Goodwin and Patrick Brennan stood in the Catterick ward, while Tony Pelton stood in Hornby Castle. All failed to get elected.

In a written statement, the candidates said: "We call upon Richmondshire District Council to conduct a thorough inquiry into ballot box procedures and conclude unquestionable procedures and practices for all future elections to follow national legislation."

The councillors allege:

* Ballot boxes were left unattended overnight without consignment notes showing seal numbers;

* Boxes were without seals when prepared for counting;

* Ballot boxes were not blanked off after polling closed;

* Candidates were not invited to inspect the boxes to ensure they were properly sealed before counting;

* Ballot boxes were brought to the counting tables already opened.

Another unsuccessful candidate, outspoken campaigner Bernard Borman, who stood in Lower Wensleydale, has reported his concerns over alleged ballot boxes irregularities to the police.

In response, Richmondshire officials said the ballot boxes were locked with a padlock and then sealed after the poll had taken place. The boxes were then locked overnight in the hall at Colburn Sports Centre, where the count was due to take place the following day.

The building was also alarmed and the police agreed to patrol the area throughout the night, officers added.

Officials said the only seals removed prior to the count were surplus fasteners placed on the boxes unnecessarily.

Harry Tabiner, the district council's returning officer, said: "As far as we're concerned, the allegations are groundless.

"We have officers checked during the day at the polling stations that all boxes are secure and that lock seals are in place. Only the surplus seals were removed prior to the count.

"However, the lock seals remained in place until the count commenced."

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police confirmed they had received a complaint from Mr Borman and were investigating.