Lib Dems triumphant in crucial by election
Gazette & Herald
www.gazetteandherald.co.uk
2nd March 2006 pg 12
LIBERAL Democrat John Webb emerged triumphant in Thursday's critical Lyneham by-election. His nail-biting victory, by 52 votes, follows a defeat at a previous by election by just one vote. Coun Webb, 44, from Bradenstoke, gained 654 votes, while his opponent, Conservative Sarah Still, had 602.

Thursday's result has swung the balance of power at North Wiltshire District Council in favour of the Liberal Democrats. The election saw a 34 per cent turnout against last year's 29 per cent.

Coun Webb said: "I'm still trying to become human again after such a hectic time. I just couldn't watch the count, instead I was pacing the floor outside, cigarette in hand. I'm definitely relieved after losing by one vote last time, I made all my thank you phone calls to those who supported me and then a few bottles of champagne were opened."

He added: "I was very pleased with the larger turnout at this election but of course we're always looking to improve the number of voters as every vote counts." Leader of North Wiltshire District Council Carol O'Gorman said: "I'm delighted that John has been given the opportunity to represent the area. He will represent the ward fairly and squarely. He's very involved with the community already and does a lot of charity work. He's a wonderful addition to the council."

The by-election came after Conservative Jim Elford, who was elected by one vote last September, quit after only four months. He had replaced Lib Dem Dennis Constable who had resigned due to ill health before moving to Northern Ireland. After the celebrations were over Coun Webb had to vote in the National Liberal Democrat leadership election. The newly elected councillor has a tough decision ahead of him between candidates Sir Menzies Campbell, Simon Hughes and Chris Huhe, who visited Chippenham last month.