Linda Chatfield Wins Close By-Election for Oakham North East
The Returning Officer at Rutland Council declaring the result for the Oakham North East By Election
In a closely contested by-election, Linda Chatfield has successfully secured the Liberal Democrat seat for Oakham North East on Rutland County Council. The election saw a spirited race, culminating in Chatfield receiving 244 votes, just edging out the Conservative candidate, Christopher Clark, who garnered 237 votes. Reform UK’s Benjamin Callaghan followed with 93 votes, while Labour’s Katie Ross received 23 votes. The voter turnout for the by-election stood at 27%, with no spoiled ballots reported.
Chatfield expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in the election, emphasising the importance of civic engagement despite the challenging weather conditions that characterised the campaign period. “I am thankful to everyone who took the time to vote, especially considering how cold it has been,” she stated.
Moreover, Chatfield extended her appreciation to her campaign team, highlighting their dedication in canvassing and connecting with the community over the past month, rain or shine. “It has been a team effort throughout this process. I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of my team,” she acknowledged.
This victory marks a significant moment for the Liberal Democrats, reflecting both the determination of Chatfield and the support from local residents. As she embarks on her term, Chatfield aims to represent the interests of her constituents and address the key issues facing the Oakham North East area.
With just a slight margin of victory, the by-election results indicate a competitive political landscape in Rutland, setting the stage for future elections and highlighting the importance of voter turnout in shaping local governance.
