Lib Dems gain Ukip seat but turnout only 9.5%

The Worthing Herald reports:

Liberal Democrat Steve Creed emerged victorious in the Lancing Parish Council by-election…

The Churchill ward by-election saw Mr Creed beat Green Party candidate Paul Hendy by 211 votes to 112.

Turnout was just 9.5 per cent – largely expected after a decision was made not to send out poll cards to save money.

The election was triggered after the resignation of UKIP councillor Sidney Hilsum.

Speaking to the Herald before the poll, Mr Creed said: “As a lifelong Liberal I am committed to a free and fair society where the solutions to local issues are provided and delivered by the local community.

“I believe I can bring a pragmatic and practical approach to getting things done at a local level drawing on the experience.

“I have gained through my career in engineering and business management.

“As your local councillor I will work hard to help make Lancing a place we can all be proud of.”

Unlike other elections, for those at the parish council level (including town and community councils too), sending out poll cards is optional and is often skipped because the local council wants to save money. A good case of where saving money damages democracy.