The Liberal Democrats have retained their seats on two councils after one of their councillors resigned and joined another party.
A by-election was held for the Kendal North district of South Lakeland District Council after Jonathan Owen resigned and joined the Green Party.
He said he could ‘no longer rely’ on the Liberal Democrats to ‘do the right thing on the environment’. He also resigned from his seat as councillor for the Kendal Strickland Ward of Kendal Town Council.
Last night Jonathan Cornthwaite was elected for the Liberal Democrats to serve on South Lakeland District Council after a 39.45 per cent turnout.
Jonathan said: “I want to thank everyone who cast their vote for me and Phil yesterday.
“I’m hugely grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to getting things done for local residents.”
Meanwhile, fellow Liberal Democrat Phil Walker was elected to replace Mr Owen on Kendal Town Council.
Phil said: “I’m really honoured that local people have put their faith in me as their local councillor – I can’t wait to get started!”
Commenting on the by-election victories, local Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron said: “I’m absolutely delighted for Jonathan and Phil.
“They are both Kendal through and through and care enormously about the future of our town.
“I know that as councillors they will now work their socks off to tackle speeding on our estates, create safer routes to schools and help me to fight for the future of our local hospitals.”
The by-election results:
Kendal North, South Lakeland District Council
- Lib Dem: 622
- Green: 527
- Con: 122
- Lab: 54
Strickland, Kendal Town Council
- Lib Dem: 647
- Green: 511
- Con: 115
- Lab: 60
