A Lib Dem gain in the formerly Conservative Hampton North ward has seen the removal of tories from the council for the first time in history.

The Richmond borough has often been closely fought between the Conservatives and Lib Dems in this century with the tories running the council in 2014. However, with the latest by-election results, this seems to be over for now.

Twickenham MP Munira Wilson said: "The incredible results in the Teddington and Hampton North by-elections reflect the warm welcome Liberal Democrats have received on the doorstep.

"They are a resounding vote of confidence in the local council, and have sent a strong message to this out-of-touch Conservative government that enough is enough."

Boasting a 48 Lib Dem majority, the only opposition is the 5 councillors of the Green Party which won on an electoral pact last election in May 2022.

Richard Baker and Carey Bishop were elected as Lib Dem councillors to Teddington and Hampton North ward (respectively).

First elected as Teddington councillor in 2018, Mr Baker did not stand in 2022 council elections but is now returning to his post.

advertisement

A newcomer to the council is Ms Bishop: a former magistrate who now works for her family's green waste management company.

Ms Wilson added: "I'm thrilled that Richard Baker has resumed his old seat as a Teddington councillor, and am likewise thrilled to welcome Carey Bishop as a Hampton North councillor, bringing her incredible experience as a successful businessperson and former magistrate."

Mr Barker and Ms Bishop received support from their MP, Ms Wilson, on doorknocking and leafletting during the campaign.

Both wards saw a low electoral turn out of around 30% in the January cold snap. Last ward by-election was Hampton Wick in May 2021 which saw an average of 56.7% of residents turn up to the polls.

Both by-elections were triggered respectively by the deaths of Conservative cllr Geoffrey Samuel and Liberal Democrat cllr Martin Elengorn in November 2023.