Conservatives retain seat in South Northants by-election

Ken Pritchard won the Old Stratford seat with 369 votes (77.2 per cent) compared to UKIP’s candidate Rose Gibbons who received 109 votes (22.8 per cent).

Only the Conservatives and UKIP contested the seat.

Speaking after the poll result was announced Mr Pritchard said “I am pleased that Old Stratford will continue to have Conservative representation on South Northants Council.

“I have spoken to many Old Stratford residents during my campaign and I am confident that I understand the priorities for the area and have the skills needed to see them through on the council.

“I feel well placed to carry on the work of my predecessor Stephen Mold and would like to thank all those who voted for me and campaigned with me to get this fantastic result.”

The vacancy arose following the resignation of Stephen Mold, who was elected the Police and Crime Commissioner for Northamptonshire in May and decided to focus on his new role.

Speaking after the result Cllr Ian McCord, leader of South Northamptonshire Council said: “I congratulate Ken on his victory and am pleased that he has been elected.

“I look forward to working with him in the Conservative Group. This is ringing endorsement of the policies, direction and work of South Northants Council.”

The political balance of South Northamptonshire Council remains unchanged with the Conservatives holding 34 seats, Liberal Democrats four seats, independents three seats, and one further vacancy following the resignation of Cllr Simon Clifford (Conservative) from the Grange Park ward.

A vacancy notice has been published following the resignation. If two electors in the local authority area request the vacancy be filled by election, the Returning Officer for the district will fix a date on which an election will be held. Such requests should be sent to: The Returning Officer, The Forum, Moat Lane, Towcester, NN12 6AD.