New Somerset Councillor Stephen Page with MP Sarah Dyke after his win in Somerton

Lib Dems win Somerton by-election after sad passing of Dean Ruddle

Paul JonesMarch 30, 20240 Comment0

THE Liberal Democrats have continued an impressive run of election victories in Somerset – with a win in a Somerton by-election.

The poll, for the Somerton ward on Somerset Council, was called after the sad passing of Cllr Dean Ruddle.

Among the candidates was former Somerset County Council cabinet member, David Hall, who stood for the Conservatives.

However, the seat will now be filled by Stephen Page, who came out on top of a vote on Thursday (March 28).

Full results in the Somerton by-election were:
Gregory Chambers – Labour: 174
Matthew Geen – Green: 154
David Hall – Conservative: 878
Stephen Page – Liberal Democrats: 1212

Turnout on the day was 27.98%, with 12 spoiled ballots.

Speaking after the result was announced, fellow Somerton councillor Tim Kerley (Lib Dem, Somerton), said: “A huge congratulations to Cllr Stephen Page who is now my new co-councillor for the Somerton Division on Somerset Council.

“This result is a huge vote of confidence in the Lib Dem administration – despite all the difficulties we’re facing in local government.”

“With 50% of the votes, this is a fantastic result, a huge thank you must go out to the campaign team as well as the voters of Somerton and surrounding villages for continuing to put their trust in the Liberal Democrats.”