Conservatives rejoice as they hold onto ward in by-election

STEPHEN DODDS WINS EAGLESCLIFFE WEST

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT Local democracy reporter

THE Conservatives are celebrating as they held an Eaglescliffe West seat in a decisive by-election victory.

Stephen Dodds won the Stockton Council seat with almost 1,200 votes, 61% of the vote.

Reform UK's candidate came second with 24% of the vote while Labour were beaten into last place with 7.5% of the vote, just behind the Green Party which won 150 votes.

Councillor Dodds lives in Eaglescliffe and runs his own local architecture business.

He has promised to be a strong local voice for the people of Eaglescliffe West and fight for the priorities of local people, including opposing more housing development, the protection of our play parks and better value for money for local taxpayers.