 |
 |
By-election success for Lib Dems
August 6, 2010 3:32 PM
Simon (right) enjoyed the support of MPs Don Foster (left), David Heath and Duncan Hames.
Last month Lib Dem candidates won council seats in Radstock and Keynsham. Simon Allen of Radstock received 40% of votes cast, while Andy Halliday gained almost half of the total vote in Keynsham. Both candidates were backed by Don Foster MP.
In Radstock, Simon Allen was the first Lib Dem to contest the seat since the nineties. Labour have dominated the Town Council for several decades, and did not expect strong competition from Simon's campaign. When it came, however, they found that they could not match the enthusiasm or grass-roots support shown by the Lib Dems.
Simon said, "I am honoured and proud that the residents of Radstock have put their faith in me and voted for a fresh start for our town. I hope to restore people's trust in local democracy."
The positive result for Simon strengthens the Lib Dems' position on B&NES council, with 27 seats out of a total 65. This closes the gap with the Conservatives, who currently run the council with 31 seats.
Andy Halliday lives in Keynsham, where he has campaigned for years on local issues. He stood after a Labour Councillor for Keynsham South resigned. Andy was a hardworking candidate, whose persistence over the years was clearly recognised by the electorate.
Andy commented, "I am delighted that so many people went out and voted for me. It's a privilege to be able to represent these people."
Andy's win makes the Lib Dems the largest party on the Keynsham Town Council with 7 out of 15 seats. However, it is expected that the Conservatives (6 seats) and Labour (2 seats) will continue to keep control of the Town Council in coalition.
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats