Lib Dems win by-election to become largest group on Torridge District Council

The Liberal Democrats have become the largest single group on Torridge District Council after winning the Winkleigh by-election.

The ward seat became vacant following the resignation of Councillor Simon Newton and residents went to the polls on Thursday (December 4).

Liberal Democrat candidate Stephen Middleton won with 325 votes, ahead of Michael Jarvis for Reform UK on 252 and Benjamin Roth for Local Conservatives on 191. The voter turnout was 42%.

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It gives the Liberal Democrats 12 seats on the district council, a third of the total councillors, but not an overall majority.

Speaking after his election, Mr Middleton, an Ashreigney parish councillor who runs a family farm in Riddlecombe, said: “I am very honoured to have been elected as district councillor and grateful to the people of Winkleigh for their support.

“I am honoured that I have been chosen to represent the area where I have lived and worked all my life. Thank you for the trust put in me, I look forward to serving as your councillor.”

Teresa Tinsley, who leads the Lib Dem group on Torridge, added: “This is our third by-election win this year, following on from Appledore in March and Milton and Tamarside just a few weeks ago.

“The increased numbers put us in a better position to tackle issues blighting our communities such as lack of affordable housing, economic deprivation and the impact of climate change.

“Steve will be a huge asset to our team, and I know he will work hard for the people he represents.”

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Councillor Middleton said that his first priority would be to get to grips with the latest planning proposals for Winkleigh.

He said: “We have had massive expansion in recent years, but we’re not getting the infrastructure to go with it. 

“There is no safe way to access the airfield from the village without a car and huge concern about road safety. We need better walking and cycling options, better public transport and better broadband connectivity. I am also concerned about insufficient water treatment capacity.”