Liberal Democrat candidate Andrea Ann Pellegram has been elected to represent Chesterton on Cotswold District Council. The by-election on January 16 was triggered by the sudden and unexpected resignation of Lib Dem Roly Hughes who also stood down from Cirencester Town Council in November.
His party said at the time he had resigned due to “personal reasons”. Newly elected Cllr Pellegram said winning the support of residents was a “profound honour”.
She received 296 votes ahead of Reform UK’s candidate Jill Rixon who polled 152. Conservative Rhyan Dhindsa was third with 106 votes and Labour Party candidate Andy Farmer polled 61.
Cllr Pellegram says she will take up their position immediately and work alongside colleagues to represent the interests of Chesterton Ward and the wider Cotswold District. She said: “Winning the support of the people of Chesterton Ward is a profound honour.
“I am committed to listening, collaborating, and working tirelessly to ensure our community thrives. Together, we can build a future we’re all proud to be part of.”
Robert Weaver, chief executive and returning officer of Cotswold District Council, expressed his gratitude to all participants in the electoral process. He said: “We are grateful to everyone who took part in the Chesterton by-election.
“Thank you to the residents who cast their votes; your voice matters in shaping how our community is run. We look forward to continuing to serve the people of the Cotswolds and helping our community to thrive.”
The by-election saw a voter turnout of 35.37 per cent, with residents of Chesterton Ward casting their ballots to elect a new representative.
The current political composition of Cotswold District Council is 21 Liberal Democrats, nine Conservatives, two Green Party councillors and two Independents. The Liberal Democrats retain their majority on the council.
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