Local Conservatives have celebrated success in a local by election. Conservative Party Candidate Maureen Palmer won victory in a by-election contest for the Cherry Willingham Ward of West Lindsey District Council.

The contest was called following the resignation of Conservative district councillor Alexander Bridgwood to pursue a career in the armed services. In an exciting result, which saw a large swell in the Conservative vote victory was secured. Speaking in Cherry Willingham Church Hall, following her election Maureen said:

"I want to thank the Returning Officer and the count staff here this evening. I want to thank the staff who ran the polling stations throughout the day.

"I want to thank the other opponents both Wendy and Trevor - even though he isn't here tonight. I want to thank my Agent, Giles McNeill for his support throughout the campaign.

"I am very grateful to everyone who has supported me and everyone who has taken part in today's election. I will work hard for everyone across the Cherry Willingham Ward in my time as their district councillor."

Conservative Party Agent, Giles McNeill added:

"An increase in the Conservatives' share of the vote of more than twelve percentage points is a considerable achievement after eight years in power at the Council and six years in Government, having to implement the tough choices of austerity.

"Maureen's victory is a vindication of positive politics. Local Conservatives pride ourselves on our honesty and integrity. We run campaigns that are about what we would do if elected. Not sneering at people or attacking others. The sourness of Labour's literature must surely be one reason for their lack-lustre performance whilst  UKIP seemed pretty absent during the campaign - exemplified by their candidate's absence at the count."

Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr. Roger Patterson, said:

"What a fantastic result! Congratulations to new West Lindsey District Councillor Maureen Palmer on her magnificent victory in Cherry Willingham ward tonight."

Branch Chairman, Stephanie Rouse, added:

"A great win. Congratulations to Maureen. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard prior to the Election."

The result of the Cherry Willingham Ward of West Lindsey District Council contest was:

• Wendy Beckett, Labour, 288 (26.49%)
• Trevor Bridgwood, UKIP, 244 (22.44%) 
• Maureen Palmer, Conservative, 555 (51.07%) 

Turnout: 17.62% | Swing: 2.57% from the Conservatives to Labour