A new councillor has been voted in following a by-election in Evesham this week.

Residents of Little Hampton went to the polls on Thursday to elect a new representative, following the resignation of Ged Bearcroft.

Mr Bearcroft became the third councillor in little over a month to resign when he stepped down from the role at the end of January.

He later confirmed that the decision was "not political" but due to family reasons.

Now, his successor has been confirmed as fellow Conservative, John Clatworthy. 

The new councillor finished with just shy of 50 per cent of the vote.

Speaking after his victory, he said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the voters of the Little Hampton Ward who took the opportunity to cast their votes for the by-election.

"I would also thank the other candidates who stood. It takes a huge amount of work and effort to generate any by-election (let alone the cost)."

He added: "Again I thank the Returning Officer and staff for ensuring this all ‘went off’ without a hitch.

"You may not be aware that the polling clerks are at the polling station shortly after 6am to set up, stay in situ for 15 hours and then have to clear and secure your votes. A special thanks has to go to them.

"I repeat my thanks and now look forward to the challenges ahead."

Little Hampton Ward full result:

John Clatworthy – Conservative Party – 294 (elected)

Callum Gailey – Independent – 172

Rob Nichols - Green Party - 125

Electorate:4178 Ballots papers issued:592 Rejected:1 Turnout:14.2%