Smith ousted by UKIP off District Council - The Evesham Observer

Smith ousted by UKIP off District Council

Evesham Editorial 18th May, 2015 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

FORMER Wychavon District Councillor John Smith was left disappointed after losing his seat he held for more than 30 years to UKIP.

Mr Smith lost the Great Hampton seat he represented for more than three decades by just 17 votes to newly-elected Coun Ged Bearcroft at the district council elections on Friday (May 8).

Due to the closeness of the vote, there was a recount, before it was declared Coun Bearcroft had claimed 624 votes compared to Mr Smith’s 607 much to the shock of Conservatives.

Mr Smith said: “One has to accept the democratic situation. Obviously I’m disappointed after representing Great Hampton and Evesham for 32 years.




“The main problem was the disruption of Abbey Bridge but I’ve done the best I could for the area and will continue as a county councillor to do what I can for Evesham.”

Coun Bearcroft was the only UKIP candidate to gain a seat in the local elections but was thrilled with the result and was relishing the new challenge of representing Great Hampton.


“I think the people of Great Hampton wanted a change. I’m delighted with the party and our campaign and look forward to making a difference to the area.

“It’s a great result for the democratic future and I’m going to try my best to meet the peoples needs over the next four years.

“It is time to look ahead now and my first main aim will be on infrastructure,” he added.

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