THE Conservative candidate Graham Hardwell won a by-election for one of the two Longwell Green seats on South Gloucestershire Council.
Mr Hardwell received 951 votes, with Reform’s Stephen James Burge coming second with 698. The Lib Dems’ James Pringle Corrigan was in third place, polling 511, with Labour’s Jack Matthew Friend netting 246 votes and the Greens’ Rachel Emily Ward in fifth place on 143.
The total number of votes cast was 2551, including two spoiled ballot papers. With an electorate of 7,587, this represented a turnout of 33.62 per cent.
Mr Hardwell will join fellow Conservative Carol Strange in representing Longwell Green on the council. The by-election was called following the resignation of Tory councillor Kris Murphy, who has joined the Royal Navy.
North East Somerset and Hanham Conservatives welcomed Mr Hardwell’s victory.
They said: “This result reflects the hard work of Graham and the entire local Conservative team. We would like to thank every volunteer who knocked on doors, delivered leaflets and supported the campaign, as well as every resident who placed their trust in Graham.
“We look forward to seeing Graham work alongside Councillor Carol Strange and stand up for the people of Longwell Green.”