Louise Harris has been declared the winner of the Dodington Ward by-election, thus securing her place on South Gloucestershire Council.

After beating competition from Conservative Ian Livermore and Labour's John Malone, Louise joins fellow Liberal Democrat Councillor Tony Davis on the ward.

The newest member of South Glos Council won 49% of the vote, with the Conservatives in second place on 39%. 

That margin of victory actually showed an increase from 41% at the last election for Louise, who is also on Dodington Parish Council. 

The by-election was called after the sad passing of Gloria Stephens who died last month. 

Gloria had made her mark on the area and speaking after her win, the new Cllr Harris revealed she hopes to emulate her predecessor.

"I am delighted to have been elected to serve the people of Dodington alongside my fellow Lib Dem councillor Tony Davis," she said.

"I’d like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to my predecessor Gloria Stephen, who was a dedicated local Councillor and community champion for Dodington.

"I hope to follow in her footsteps in standing up for local residents and the issues that really matter to them. I would also like to thank everyone in Dodington who came out to vote in this election.

"Whether you voted for me or not, I will do my utmost to stand up for you and fight your corner on the council."

Liberal Democrat Group Leader and Parliamentary spokeswoman for Thornbury and Yate, Claire Young expressed her delight at the result.

“I’m delighted to welcome Louise as the latest member of the Lib Dem Group on the council," she said.

"She has the energy and determination to make a real difference on the council. Despite throwing the kitchen sink at this campaign, and using all sorts of desperate and underhand tactics, the Conservatives got absolutely nowhere.

"Clearly the people of Dodington have chosen to reward Louise’s positive campaign rather than the Tories dirty tricks.

"This victory clearly bodes well for the Lib Dems in May’s local elections, where we will be looking to take back control of South Gloucestershire Council."