Lib Dems increase vote shares in emphatic by-election victories

The Liberal Democrats last night secured impressive victories in the County Council and District Council by-elections in Windermere. Tim Farron described it as a "ringing endorsement of the Lib Dem's record of local action", from campaigning for the hospital through to rolling out plastic and cardboard kerbside recycling.

In the Windermere County Council seat, Steve Rooke achieved a 0.7% increase in the Lib Dem vote share, winning the seat with 52.3% of the vote. The Conservatives were in second place with 40.7% of the vote.

Andrew Jarvis also secured victory in the Windermere Bowness North District Council by-election. The Lib Dem vote share increased by 11.1%, up to 60.1%. In second place, the Conservative vote share fell by 4.1% to 34.9%.

The by-elections were triggered due to former councillor Colin Jones standing down for personal reasons.

South Lakes MP Tim Farron said: "My thanks go to everyone who has supported the Lib Dem team in this election. The level of support we have received is truly humbling, and leaves us more determined than ever to continue to fight for our communities and for the local services people rely on. Steve and Andrew are both dedicated community campaigners and will work hard for our area. I'd also like to thank Colin Jones for his time as councillor over the last few years."

Steve Rooke said: "My thanks go to the people of Windermere for their support in this election. I look forward to representing the community I live in alongside the rest of the Lib Dem team. I am grateful to all who helped during the election."

Andrew Jarvis said: "I'm delighted to have been elected as a District Councillor. It will be a privilege to serve the people of Windermere and Bowness."