A MEMBER of the Independents for Crediton initiative has won a seat on Crediton Town Council.

The election for a candidate in Lawrence Ward took place on Thursday, March 27, the count taking place at Phoenix House, Tiverton on Friday, March 28.

Victoria Frisby, commonly known as Vix Frisby, received 308 votes with the other candidate, Tim Stanford, receiving 268 votes.

The electorate was 3,094 with 579 ballot papers issued and turnout of 18.7 per cent.

The election followed the disqualification of a Liberal Democrat candidate for not attending meetings.

Before the election Vix said: “I have lived in Crediton for almost 20 years and raised both my daughters here, who attend QE school. I work as a Social Care Assessor for Devon County Council and prior to this worked locally across supported living homes. My professional role requires excellent communication skills, a compassionate and understanding nature and is essentially about improving lives.

“As an Independent Councillor, I would be able to utilise my skills and experience to benefit the local community. I strongly believe that the Town Council needs to be more widely representative of the town demographic and that councillors should really 'listen' to the views and concerns of local people.

“Council Tax payers and small businesses are the life blood of the town and Crediton's local council tax (precept) has gone up hugely over recent years and is now over £500,000. I think it is time to bring this down, in the light of the current cost of living crisis, as many local people find this hard to pay.

“As a local resident, I care about the future of my town and am passionate about improving prospects for all and ensuring Crediton continues to be a great place to live.”