Tories return to Town Council

Yesterday's two by-elections in Hertford have returned Conservatives to Hertford Town Town Council.

Bengeo resident Sue Barber was re-elected to the council with 720 votes (48%), whilst the Green Party's Robert Beahan received 588 votes (38%). Labour’s Martin Smith was third on 146 (10%) and Liberal Democrat Geoffrey Madge got 62 votes (4%).

Mrs Barber previously served on the council, but lost her seat in the local elections of 2023.

In Hertford Castle Ward, Conservative Ryan Henson was elected with 551 votes (48%), beating the Green Party Harriet Moore, who polled 299 votes (26%), followed up Labour’s former town councillor Rob Pinkham with 220 votes (19%) and Liberal Democrat former town councillor Andrew Porrer, who got 79 (7%).

Cllr Barber said: "It is a privilege to be elected by the people of Bengeo North. The residents here deserve better than the policies we’ve seen from the current Green-led council. My focus will be on delivering tangible improvements for our area. I’m looking forward to working for the community and ensuring their voices are heard."

Cllr Henson said: "I'm humbled by the support of local residents and grateful for the opportunity to serve our community. This victory is a clear mandate to stand up against Labour and Green councillors who have imposed unnecessary tax hikes on our town. I will work tirelessly to keep council tax fair, promote investment, and protect our green spaces."

Councillor Rachel Carter, Mayor of Hertford, commented: "We are delighted to welcome both councillors to Hertford Town Council. The Council is grateful to all candidates who put themselves forward to serve our wonderful town and we extend our congratulations to those who have been chosen by the two local wards to represent them on the Council. We look forward to working together for the benefit of the people and place of Hertford."

Hertford Town Council is now made up of 10 Green councillors, 3 Labour, 2 Conservative and 1 independent.