VOTERS in the Way ward (Cheriton Fitzpaine, Poughill and Cruwys Morchard) have elected a young woman as the person to represent them on Mid Devon District Council.

Cathryn Heal (25) becomes the youngest councillor at Mid Devon in recent memory.

The Conservative Party candidate received 189 votes. Other results were Judi Binks (Liberal Democrat) 130, Bob Edwards (UK Independence Party) 60 and John Jordan (Independent) 15.

The election took place on Thursday, September 26 and votes were counted at The Council Chamber, Market Street, Crediton.

There were two spoilt papers. Turnout was good at 31.2 per cent.

The vacancy occurred due to the resignation of the previous Conservative councillor, Mrs Sarah Fox (nee Norman).

Cllr Heal polled 48 per cent of the 394 votes cast, the Liberal Democrats (33 per cent), UKIP (15 per cent) and the Independent candidate (four per cent).

Speaking after the count Cllr Heal said: "I am delighted that local residents have put their faith in me to represent them at Mid Devon.

"During the election campaign I stressed that my priorities were the preservation of rural services, affordable housing and provisions for young people in rural areas. These are issues which I will now vigorously pursue at Mid Devon."

Among the first to congratulate Cllr Heal were Central Devon MP Mel Stride and Mid Devon District Council Leader Peter Hare-Scott.

"It is great news for Mid Devon to have someone so youthful and energetic join the ranks," said Mel. "The Council's new Conservative administration has done an excellent job since 2011 and Cathryn will be a welcome addition to their group."

Cllr. Hare-Scott added: "Cathryn will undoubtedly be a hard-working and dedicated local councillor and a real asset to Mid Devon. I very much look forward to working with her."

As a result of the Way Ward by-election the Conservatives maintain their six seat majority at Mid Devon, holding 24 of the 42 seats on the Council.

Alan Quick