St. John’s Ward
Candidate | Party | Votes |
Susan Vera Howell | Conservative Party | 862 |
Shirley Beatrice Shilton | Liberal Democrats | 695 |
Jeremy Eastaugh | Labour Party | 201 |
Brian Percy Hadland | Independent | 48 |
Christopher John Edgerton | OBH No Care Beds | 16 |
Electorate 5862
Ballot Papers Issued 1338 (31.3% Turnout)
FORMER TOWN CLERK NOW A COUNCILLOR
There was a poor turnout of just 31% turnout for this by-election following the death of long-serving Tory councillor Graham Windybank. It was always likely that the seat would remain in Tory hands as it has been a stronghold of theirs for decades. Indeed, Susan Howell was the victorious, winning by a majority of 167 votes. Her name will be familiar to Kenilworth people as she had been the town clerk from 1987 to 2003. She is now back in the council chamber, not taking the minutes but making them!
Mrs Howell of Thickthorn Orchards, who was born in Solihull was delighted at the result. She admitted that during her time as town clerk she was always interested in listening to the council meetings, and often wanted to say something but now she can!
Chairman of the Kenilworth Liberal Democrats, John Whitehouse said that they were happy at the outcome of their candidate, Shirley Shilton getting 695 votes, considering we traditionally have not been strong in this ward, it is something we can build upon.
Kenilworth Town Councillors
11 Conservatives (M. Coker, A. Cockburn, S. Harrison, F. Bunker, P. Edwards, R. Davies, N. Vincent, S. Howell, U. Durrant, J. Hadfield, G. Illingworth)
5 Liberal Democrats (P. Ryan, A. Blacklock, D. Shilton, D. Golby, A. Tyler)
1 Independent (T. Martin)