Politician who lost county council seat in 2013 after damning report on children's services wins Grange Park by-election

Leader of the Conservative council, Councillor Ian McCord and the new councillor for Grange Park, Councillor Andrew Grant

Andrew Grant was cabinet member for children's services on the county council in 2013 when a damning report said children "had been exposed to chronic harm". He survived calls at the time for him to resign over the issue but lost his seat in Delapre & Rushmeremonths later to the Liberal Democrats.

Last night, the now councillor Grant polled 244 (58.4%) votes in the Grange Park by-election compared with Labour candidate in second place, UKIP and Green parties were third and fourth.

Speaking after the poll result was announced, Councillor Grant said “I am most delighted to have won this seat in Grange Park and having previously been the deputy Leader at South Northants Council I can make an immediate impact with no lead-in period.

“I have spoken to many Grange Park residents during my campaign and I am confident that I understand the priorities for the area and will work with the other member Adil Sadygov and county councillor Michael Clarke to get delivery.

"I wish to thank all those who voted for me and campaigned with me to get this result and thank also the former councillor Simon Clifford for his service to the community and the council.”

The vacancy arose following the resignation of Simon Clifford who took up a politically restricted position within the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Northamptonshire.

Speaking after the result Councillor Ian McCord, Leader of South Northamptonshire Council said, “I congratulate Andrew on his victory and am pleased to welcome him back to the council. I have worked with Andrew in the past and know that he is a great councillor. This result is as much a victory for the Conservative council as it is for Andrew, clearly the residents of Grange Park are content with the policies, direction and work of South Northants Council.”

The political make-up of South Northants Council is Conservative, 35 seats; Liberal Democrats, four seats and Independents, three seats.