Liberal times as voters swap blue for yellow

From the archive, first published Thursday 8th Mar 2007.

The Lib Dems reclaimed Pilgrims Hatch in a by-election on Thursday.

David Kendall, 47, of Gordon Road, Shenfield, has become a councillor again, after securing 712 votes. Tory candidate Keith Sparling, 49, of Days Lane, Pilgrims Hatch, polled 651. Labour candidate Michele Wigram, of Park Road, Brentwood, polled 53.

Speaking at the count in Larchwood Primary School after his victory, Mr Kendall said: "This election has not been won by me alone but by the entire party, who have come together to support me."

He pledged to work with Brentwood Police to combat anti-social behaviour. He also plans to tackle speeding issues, parking problems and ensure that his ward is clean and litter-free.

He vowed: "I will also be holding this administration to account over the planned cinema complex in William Hunter Way. I'm not opposed to it, but I am concerned about the size and scale. We've got one chance to ge this right and it's very important that we listen to people's views on the subject. We don't want a large monstrosity that turns Brentwood into a mini-Romford."

Leader of the Conservative group, Brandon Lewis, said: "Pilgrims Hatch is a Liberal Democrat safe seat so there were no big surprises.

"This result cannot be used to predict what will happen in the seats which are up for election in May."

The by-election was held after Tory councillor Sandra Roberts stood down for failing to attend council meetings. Mrs Roberts's late husband, fellow councillor Frank, had died of cancer and she found it difficult to be in Brentwood.