The Liberal Democrats got off to a successful start to the year in local by-elections, as the party won the first principal council by-election of 2016 where the party has fielded a candidate. In yesterday’s only contest, the Liberal Democrats in Cornwall (UA), comfortably won the election in Launceston Central ward. Despite a vote share decrease of 7.9% from 2013, Gemma Massey polled an impressive 63% of the vote to win ahead of the Conservatives with a 289 vote majority.
In addition, the party also successfully defended two seats in Central ward on Launceston Town Council. Paula Bullen and Kirk Denton collectively polled over 70% of the vote to win the two vacant seats.
Liberal Democrat candidates will be standing in five of next week’s six principal council contests. The party will be fielding candidates in Hertfordshire (CC), South Lanarkshire (UA), Southwark (LB), Thanet (DC) and Wealden (DC). In addition, Labour will also be defending a seat in St Helens (MB). Liberal Democrats will also be represented in a by-election on Hailsham Town Council.
For a detailed list of last week’s results please click here. If you would like more information on all the forthcoming by-elections and details on who to contact for help, click here.