Reform UK has secured its first-ever seat on Gosport Borough Council.
Paul Carter was elected in a by-election in the Bridgemary ward, winning by 29 votes over Liberal Democrat candidate Stephen Marshall.
He received 604 votes, followed by Mr Marshall with 575, Conservative candidate Kath Jones with 207, and Labour’s Claire Percival with 35.
Councillor Carter said: “History has been made in Gosport this evening.
“I am incredibly proud and humbled to have been elected as the first ever Reform UK Councillor in Gosport, representing the Bridgemary ward.
“To the people of Bridgemary: thank you for turning out and voting.
“A 32 per cent turnout, especially in today’s heavy rain, is absolutely fantastic and shows just how much local people care about their community.
“I am truly honoured to serve you as your ward councillor, and I look forward to working hard to make Bridgemary an even better place in the years ahead.”
The by-election was triggered by the death of Liberal Democrat councillor Bob Maynard.
The turnout was 32 per cent.
Bridgemary ward by-election result
Paul Carter (Reform UK) – 604
Stephen Marshall (Lib Dem) – 575
Kath Jones (Conservative) – 207
Claire Percival (Labour) – 35
Majority: 29
Turnout: 32 per cent
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