The recent Calne Chilvester and Abberd unitary by-election resulted in a clear victory for the Liberal Democrats.

Liberal Democrat councillor Robert MacNaughton received 424 votes, whilst Conservative Taylor Clarke received 283.

Meanwhile, Nick Maslen from the Labour Party gathered a total of 172 votes and Hugh Pilcher-Clayton collected 58.  

The recorded turnout for the by-election, which was held on Thursday, February 22, sits at 24 per cent.

Liberal Democrat group leader, Councillor Ian Thorn, said: “This was an outstanding result for the Lib Dems. 

“A gain in previously safe Tory territory. 

“The result sends a powerful signal ahead of the general election and local elections in 2025.”

Councillor MacNaughton described it as a “wonderful surprise” to be elected.

He said: “I’m very grateful for all the help I received in being elected.

“Nobody could do any of that by themselves.

“I’m also delighted to be able to serve the community in relation to Wiltshire Council.”

 The Liberal Democrat councillor said his priority would be raising awareness on the quality of the rivers in Wiltshire and the abuse of the environment.