Fred Hulls of the Liberal Democrats has been elected to represent the Kingswood ward on Stroud District Council following a by-election held on 2 September. The election was called after the previous Liberal Democrat councillor, Holly Simkiss, stepped down for personal reasons.
In the by-election, Fred Hulls secured a commanding win with 442 votes. Conservative candidate Louise Tandy came second with 109 votes, while Reform UK’s Michael Rees received 70 votes. Green Party candidate Alasdair Liddell and Labour’s Claire Cook garnered 40 and 30 votes respectively. The voter turnout stood at 37.3 per cent.
Cllr Hulls expressed his gratitude, stating, “After a whirlwind campaign, I’m honoured to be elected and blown away by the result. Having previously connected with many residents through my businesses, free community events, and town council activities, I was fortunate that people already knew what I stand for. I look forward to continuing to create positive change for the people of my ward and beyond.”
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Linda Cohen, Councillor for Wotton-under-Edge and leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Ebley Mill, welcomed Fred Hulls’ election. She remarked, “I’m delighted that Fred has been elected to carry forward the work begun by Holly. There is much to do to ensure Kingswood residents are effectively represented at the council, particularly regarding road safety and planning issues, so the community can enjoy a safe and peaceful environment in this much-valued area. Fred is a well-known community champion who understands the importance of supporting local schools and businesses that form the foundation of the ward.”
The Kingswood ward encompasses the village of Kingswood and the neighbouring communities of Alderley, Hillesley, Wortley, and Tresham.
Green Party candidate Alasdair Liddell extended his congratulations to Cllr Hulls for a “great campaign” and thanked voters for their support. Chloe Turner, the council’s Green leader representing Minchinhampton, also expressed her eagerness to welcome Cllr Hulls to the council.
The current composition of Stroud District Council is 23 Green Party members, 18 Labour representatives, six Conservatives, two Liberal Democrats, and two Independents.