THE Liberal Democrats have picked up another seat after a council by-election.

Somerset West and Taunton’s newest councillor is Derek Perry, who won the seat vacated by former mayor Catherine Herbert.

Mrs Herbert, a Conservative, resigned in July - less than two months after the May local elections.

The result was:

Lib Dems: 648 
Conservative: 307
Independent: 155
Labour: 32
Green: 30 

The turnout was 32.1%, with 1,176 votes cast. The Lib Dems saw their vote share grow from 29% in May, to 55%.

Cllr Perry said: “I’m overwhelmed by the level of support and I will do my very best for everyone in Vivary Ward how ever they voted."

READ MORE: Former mayor Catherine Herbert resigns from Somerset West and Taunton Council

Gideon Amos, Lib Dem Parliamentary candidate for Taunton Deane, said: “This amazing victory in a ward which has previously always been Conservative shows the Lib Dems are on the march and really can win this Parliamentary seat." 

Federica Smith-Roberts, Lib Dem Leader of the council, said: “This is an amazing result.

"Not only does this show Gideon can win this Parliamentary seat, but it is also a real vote of confidence in everything we have done to start turning the council around since May and will continue to work on." 

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