Labour has increased its majority as it held on to a seat in an unexpected Wirral Council by-election.
A little more than 12 months after being elected, Dave Brennan vacated his position as Labour councillor for Liscard, citing personal reasons last month. The party comfortably held on in Thursday’s poll, maintaining its grip on the ward.
James Laing, who took the victory, actually increased the party’s majority taking 65% compared to 57% for Mr Brennan last year. Cllr Laing secured 1,304 votes, beating Conservative candidate Jane Owens into second with 370.
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Nadia Parsons took third for the Green Party with 172 while Liberal Democrat candidate Charlie Houghton was fourth, receiving 167 votes. A total of 2,013 ballots were cast on a turnout of 18%.
Cllr Laing joins Wirral Council leader Cllr Janette Williamson and Cllr Daisy Kenny in representing the ward for Labour. The new councillor took to social media after his victory to pay tribute to those who had supported him.
He tweeted: Thanks to the voters of Liscard for coming out and giving me and Labour their support today. Also thanks to Seacombe Labour, Wirral Labour Group and all the members who helped over the campaign.
“Also thanks to Liverpool Labour and all those from outside our peninsula who helped.” Cllr Williamson also hailed the victory for her party.
She said: “It was a fantastic result at a time that people are so disillusioned with politics. Labour are trusted and hard working in Liscard and James is an amazing local candidate who will serve his community well.
“A huge thank you to our residents for continued support, we won't let them down.” Cllr Laing will have less than 12 months in post before going to the voters again after Wirral Council moved to all out elections in 2023.
The end of the election may also mean Wirral Council can complete the disposal of its freehold interest in Dominick House, Liscard. It had been expected last month that the authority’s economy, regeneration and housing committee would sign off on a deal worth £230,000.
However, it was confirmed that owing to the vote transaction would be put on hold until it was resolved.
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