Lib Dems win two by-elections in Gloucestershire town
Summary
The Liberal Democrats have won the two Cotswold by-elections which were triggered by the resignation of former District Council leader Joe Harris. Councillor Andrea Pellegram has been elected to represent Cirencester Park at Gloucestershire County Council while Naomi Bloomer is the new councillor for St Michael’s at Cotswold District Council.
Details
The July 2 elections were called after Liberal Democrat Joe Harris stood down from both councils in May to pursue a career change. Councillor Bloomer thanked residents for putting their trust in them and said following Joe Harris as a district councillor will be an impossible task. “I will try my hardest to be the dedicated and passionate councillor the people of St Michael’s deserve,” she said.
“I’d like to thank my family, friends and colleges for your everlasting support, I can’t wait to get started for a better St Michael’s.” Councillor Lisa Spivey (South Cerney), who leads the Lib Dem administration at Shire Hall, said they are delighted with the results in Cirencester.
“It shows that local people can see the hard work Liberal Democrats are putting in and the positive changes we’re delivering across the county,” she said “We said we’d bring change, and we’ve done exactly that. Not only have we held both seats, but we’ve also increased our share of the vote – a clear sign that people support the direction we’re taking.
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“We’re proud to be delivering for local communities and are excited to welcome Cllr Pellegram to the Gloucestershire Liberal Democrat team.
“Our congratulations also go to Cllr Bloomer, she will be a great addition to Cotswold District Council , and we can’t wait to see what she gets up to.” Cllr Pellegram received 1,369 votes ahead of Conservative candidate David Fowles on 429 and Reform UK’s Joseph Anthony John Day who polled 366. Green Party candidate Dylan James Brook and Labour’s Joshua Littler-Jennings received 111 and 59 votes respectively.
There are now 27 Lib Dem county councillors, ten Reform UK members, nine Greens, six Conservatives, two Independents and one Labour and Co-operative councillor. Meanwhile, Cllr Bloomer polled 344 ahead of Conservative Glasyn Gibson on 112, Reform UK’s Joseph Anthony John Day 91, Green Party candidate Dylan James Brook on 27 and Labour’s Joshua Littler-Jennings received 15.
There are now 22 Lib Dems, ten Conservatives, one Green Party councillor and an Independent on Cotswold District Council.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live