The Liberal Democrats successfully held two council seats in a double by-election victory yesterday, maintaining their advantage as the largest party on Stockport Council. After successful local elections in May and a record-breaking general election, the largest party in Stockport has kept up the momentum with a double success. The two victories are even more significant with the council being a minority led Liberal Democrat administration.
The wins come as the two previous Councillors, Lisa Smart and Tom Morrison, were elected to parliament as MPs for Hazel Grove and Cheadle in the recent general election. Subsequently, they stepped down from their roles at the Town Hall.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Hunter said,
‘I am absolutely delighted to see two brilliant local champions elected today. We knew that our two MPs leaving the council chamber would leave big shoes to fill, but in Huma and Rachel you couldn’t find two people better suited to represent their wards.
The people of Cheadle West & Gatley have put their faith in the Liberal Democrats for over a decade now, and I know Huma will continue our track record of dedication and tireless advocacy for our residents. She’s joining a great team with her new ward colleagues Graham Greenhalgh and Ian hunter.
The Liberal Democrats now have councillors in every single constituency in the borough, showing our hard work is being supported by people across the whole of Stockport.’
Rachel Bresnahan commanded over 60% of the vote in Bredbury Green and Romiley, finishing nearly 1000 votes ahead of the Conservatives. Meanwhile Huma Kahn has continued the strong Liberal Democrat record in Cheadle West & Gatley, becoming Stockport Councils first Muslim councillor in the process.
Deputy leader of the Council, Mark Roberts said
‘I’m very pleased to welcome Rachel as my new ward colleague too, she has been involved with various projects across the local community including the founding of the Cherry Tree Project in the heart of our ward. We know that Liberal Democrats get elected when they work hard and are embedded in their community, Cllr Bresnahan is the perfect example of this. I look forward to working alongside her and Cllr Angie Clarke for our local residents in Bredbury Green and Romiley.
