Another High for Lib Dems in North Norfolk

5.55.22pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 8th Jun 2006

Liberal Democrats celebrate in Holt

Liberal Democrat candidate Philip High yesterday won the Holt District Council by-election with over 50% of the votes cast, and on a turnout of over 50%. The result was:

Con 637 (40.7%)

Lab 41 (2.6%)

Lib Dem Philip High 885 (56.6%)

Turnout 54.1%

LD gain from Independent

The Conservatives fought an energetic campaign in a traditionally Conservative voting area alongside high national poll ratings, and their candidate seemed well known. It's tribute to Philip's outstanding qualities, the record of the Liberal Democrat council, and the energy of the Lib Dem volunteers that we won against these factors.

It was obvious even before the avalanche of Lib Dem leaflets began that Philip was very well known about the town. He already had a very active political record as Chairman of the Town Council. In addition, as a first time Liberal Democrat candidate, he was brilliant in how he dealt with the campaign, and put so much energy and enthusiasm into meeting as many people as possible. It was a pleasure to be his election agent.

With the next District Council elections less than a year away, the Conservatives must be wondering what they need to do to stop their slide in North Norfolk. Turning it around will not be easy.