News story

3rd April 2004

Lib Dems Celebrate Thornbury Election Win

New councillor Bob Griffin is congratulated on his victory by fellow Thornbury town councillor Shirley Holloway and local MP Steve Webb

South Gloucestershire Liberal Democrats are today celebrating a victory in Thursday’s by-election for Thornbury Town Council. The by-election was caused by the death of Don Pearce, and on Thursday the seat was retained by the Lib Dem candidate, Bob Griffin, who polled 499 votes—exactly the same number as Don Pearce had polled in May 2003. Second was the Conservative candidate, Pam Rickards, who polled 441 votes. The other two parties were a long way back, with the Green candidate Alan Pinder on 63 votes, ahead of the Labour candidate who polled just 47 votes.

Speaking after his victory, Bob Griffin said: “It will be a privilege to serve the people of Thornbury on the Town Council. I know that Don Pearce will be a hard act to follow and he was very widely respected, but I will do my best to work for local people in the same committed way. I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard in the campaign and the many local people who wished me well”.

Northavon MP Steve Webb, who helped with the campaign, has welcomed his latest elected colleague (see photo) and said: “Bob is a fine addition to the Lib Dem team here in Thornbury. I know from first hand experience how hard the whole team works for the whole community, and I believe he will be a great asset. Bob shares the commitment to working all year round for local people, and I look forward to working with him for the good of Thornbury.”