By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Liberal Democrat Victoria Atherstone has won the St Marks’ and St Peter’s county council by-election in Cheltenham with 44 per cent of the vote.
The Lib Dem received 1607 votes ahead of Reform UK’s Warwick Ross who polled 822 and Green Party candidate Bowie Johnstone who was backed by 735 electors.
Conservative candidate Risha Santilal received 345 votes while Labour’s Julie Farmer and Billy Jones of the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition polled 158 and 15 respectively.
Cllr Atherstone, a long standing Cheltenham Borough Council, will take the place of the town’s current Mayor David Willingham who stood down from Gloucestershire County Council.
The Lib Dems say Cllr Willingham’s dedicated service to residents is warmly recognised and appreciated.
And that this result reflects growing support for their vision for the county which is one focused on strong local services, safer communities, environmental action, and a council that listens to residents.
Speaking after her election, Cllr Atherstone said she was incredibly honoured that residents placed their in her.
“As someone who has served our community for many years on Cheltenham Borough Council, I know how important it is that local residents have councillors who are visible, understand the local challenges, are hardworking, and prepared to stand up for their area,” she said.
“I’m incredibly excited to join the county team and look forward to getting straight to work – listening to residents, championing local priorities, and doing all I can for Gloucestershire.”
Shire Hall leader Lisa Spivey (LD, South Cerney) welcomed the result, saying it showed residents are backing Liberal Democrats and their focus on delivering real change for local communities.
From improving roads and public transport to protecting vital services and standing up for residents at Shire Hall.
The political make-up of Gloucestershire County Council is now 27 Lib Dems, 10 Reform UK, nine Greens, six Conservatives, two Independents and one Labour councillor.