The Liberal Democrats stormed to victory in last night's Stepping Hill ward council by-election and won the seat with a comfortable majority of 443 over the Conservatives.
The by-election, caused by the tragic death of Maggie Clay, was a hard-fought contest and a key test of strength for both the Lib Dems and the Conservatives as the general election approaches. Local resident Wendy Orrell, who has lived in the area for over 40 years, was the Lib Dem victor on a night when Conservatives hopes were dashed again. Cllr Orrell now joins Mark Weldon and Ben Alexander in representing Stepping Hill at Stockport Town Hall.
Speaking after the result was announced, Cllr Orrell thanked all her supporters and local residents who had given her their backing, and said she would work hard to prove herself a worthy successor to Maggie Clay.
