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 councillor, Holly Simkiss, also a Liberal Democrat, stepped down for personal reasons.
In the by-election, Fred Hulls secured a commanding lead with 442 votes. The Conservative candidate, Louise Tandy, finished second with 109 votes, while Michael Rees of Reform UK received 70 votes. Green Party candidate Alasdair Liddell garnered 40 votes, and Labour’s Claire Cook obtained 30. The voter turnout stood at 37.3 per cent.
Councillor Hulls commented on his victory, saying, “After a whirlwind campaign, I’m honoured to be elected and blown away by the result. I’m fortunate that I previously connected with many of my neighbours through my businesses, community events, and work on the town council, so they already knew what I stand for. I look forward to continuing to create positive change for the residents of my ward and beyond.”
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Linda Cohen, councillor for Wotton-under-Edge and leader of the Lib Dem group at Ebley Mill, expressed her delight at Hulls’ election. She stated, “I’m pleased that Fred is taking up the mantle from Holly. There is much work ahead to ensure residents in Kingswood are well represented, especially as we address road safety and planning concerns so people can live safely and peacefully in the area we all cherish. Fred is a recognised community champion who understands the importance of supporting local schools and businesses, which form the backbone of the ward.”
The Kingswood ward encompasses the village of Kingswood as well as the neighbouring communities of Alderley, Hillesley, Wortley, and Tresham.
Green Party candidate Alasdair Liddell congratulated Councillor Hulls on running a “great campaign” and thanked everyone who voted for him and the Green Party. Meanwhile, Chloe Turner, the council’s Green leader representing Minchinhampton, expressed anticipation in welcoming Hulls to the council chamber.
Following the by-election, the political composition of Stroud District Council comprises 23 Greens, 18 Labour, six Conservatives, two Liberal Democrats, and two Independents.