The Conservative candidate in the Dodington ward by-election which took place last Thursday, November 1 has now responded. 

Ian Livermore lost out to Liberal Democrat Louise Harris in the election that was scheduled after the untimely death of popular councillor Gloria Stephens a couple of months ago.

Residents in the area turned out at Shire Way Community Centre and St Nicholas' Church to select from Mr Livermore, Ms Harris and Labour's John Malone as their next South Gloucestershire councillor alongside cllr Tony Davis.

In the end, Ms Harris won with 693 votes, Livermore received 554 and Mr Malone had 158.

However despite the defeat, Ian was fairly upbeat about what he described as a step in the right direction for the party in South Yate,

"The result here in South Yate has been hugely encouraging," he said.

"I would like to thank every resident in the area that took the time to meet, speak and join me in campaigning on the issues our community face.

“Whether I was voted for, or not, I will continue to be there for residents, taking up issues and standing up for our area as we look forward to May’s elections next year."