Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Big Swing to Lib Dems in Hythe West, but Conservatives retain seat

December 11, 2009 11:07 AM

Despite a big swing from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, the Conservatives held onto the Hythe West seat in the Hythe Town Council by-election. The by-election was caused by the resignation of Conservative Councillor Richard Carroll, elected in May 2007.

The result declared late last night (10 December) was:

  • Conservative (Rosemary Griffiths) 556 [54.4%]
  • Liberal Democrat (Neil Matthews) 466 [45.6%]

Conservative majority 90. In 2007, the Conservatives took the seats with more than double the Lib Dem vote.

  • Stan Hayward Conservatives 839 Elected
  • Richard Carroll Conservatives 821 Elected
  • Linda Oliver Conservatives 772 Elected
  • John Oliver Conservatives 753 Elected
  • Alan Hugh Farmer Liberal Democrats 309
  • Paul John Roots Liberal Democrats 299
  • Dave Murphy The Labour Party Candidate 229

The Liberal Democrats won 3 by-elections (1 District, 2 Town Council seats) in 4 way contests in June 2009.

Liberal Democrat campaign manager Tim Prater said:

"It's never good to lose, but the result shows how competitive Hythe West has become - we've seen a big swing from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats since 2007. Commiserations to Neil Matthews for not being elected last night despite a sterling campaign by the Hythe West team, and congratulations to new Hythe West Councillor Rosemary Griffiths.

"in 2009, of 13 contested elections - all of which were previously held by the Conservatives - between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats in Shepway, the Liberal Democrats have won five. Going into the New Year, we're confident and upbeat about our prospects across the area. Thank you to all those who have voted for the Liberal Democrats through the year. "

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

    • YouTube:
  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    shepwaylibdems.org.uk/en/article/2009/030884/big-swing-to-lib-dems-in-hythe-west-but-conservatives-retain-seat
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    shep.lib.dm/a41jj

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you agree, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image