Lib Dems gain another councillor in West Devon

The Liberal Democrat candidate, Jan Goffey, topped the poll in the Okehampton South byelection last Thursday 6 November. Mrs Goffey, who has a long history of dedicated public service and was twice Mayor of Okehampton Town, becomes the sixth Lib Dem councillor on West Devon Borough Council and part of the ruling Alliance group. 

The Lib Dems took 57% of the vote, beating the Conservatives’ 24% and with a turnout of 22%. 

Speaking after her election, Mrs Goffey thanked residents who made her election possible, saying:

‘I'm delighted, and honoured, to have been chosen to represent Okehampton South and Meldon on West Devon Borough Council. Thank you all who exercised your democratic right and voted!

‘Those that know me well, know Okehampton is in my blood and over many years I’ve always tried to do my best for the town and all its inhabitants. During the election I heard many complaints about the state of our national politics. Comments with which I sympathise. People want MPs and councillors to get on with things and make their lives better. Getting on with things is my forte!’

Chris West, leader of the Liberal Democrat group on West Devon Borough Council, said:

‘Jan will be a great representative for Okehampton South and will make a real difference to what we can achieve for residents.’ 

Full results:

Jan Goffey, Liberal Democrat, 356

Lois Samuel, Conservative, 152

Julie Yelland, Independent, 116

The Okehampton South seat became vacant after the resignation of Green Party councillor Malcolm Calder through ill health.