Torridge and West Devon Liberal Democrats

Tavistock News 

Stunning Victory for People of Tavistock

Lib Dems win in Tavistock North

Friday 8th February 2008

Last night saw a stunning victory for the people of Tavistock as local Lib Dems candidate, Adam Bridgewater, was elected Councillor for Tavistock North with almost 60% of the vote. Adam pledged to work hard for all the people of Tavistock North, all the time!

The Tavistock North by-election was caused by the early resignation of Conservative Councillor Shaun Watchorn. In this election, held only 9 months ago, the Conservatives held a sizeable lead at the polls. However, with above average turnout for a by-election, the Lib Dem candidate, Adam Bridgewater was elected with a massive majority.

Adam said, “I am thrilled and honoured to be the local representative for Tavistock North. Even before the election was called, we were working hard with people on the ground to solve their problems and resolve their issues. We have just continued this good work, and the people of Tavistock have recognized it. It was a fantastic team effort, and I know that residents really appreciated the hard work that we put in, and will continue to put in as the Lib Dems team.”

Adam Bridgewater is congratulated by Cllr Alison Clish-Green (Tavistock South West) and Cllr Roy Connelly (Tavistock North)

Adam defeated a Green Party candidate, and also the Conservative candidate who had been heavily backed and supported by Geoffrey Cox, the Conservative MP. The Lib Dems doubled their vote while the Conservatives disappointingly lost 20% of their vote.

Adam Symons, Local Parliamentary Spokesperson for Torridge and West Devon, who works closely with Tavistock’s residents on the ground said, “I congratulate the people of Tavistock for choosing someone with such energy, enthusiasm and determination to work for them. I know Adam will bring a fresh perspective to West Devon Borough Council. It is brilliant that the younger generation of voters came out to support him. I hope that this will encourage more young people to represent their communities. We need a more diverse set of local representatives at all levels of government if we are to reclaim faith in democracy.”

Polling Results:

Adam Bridgewater (Lib Dems) 812

David Whitcomb (Local Conservative) 425

Myfanwy Cook (Green Party) 133