Lib Dem Iain Murdoch wins key district by-election in Mole Valley

Mole Valley Lib Dems won a seat from the Conservatives in Thursday's District Council by-election in Capel, Leigh and Newdigate. This means that the Liberal Democrats are now the largest group on Mole Valley District Council.

This is the second time that the voters of Capel, Leigh and Newdigate have elected Iain Murdoch as their District Councillor. Iain served as Councillor from 2006 until the elections in May this year. The by-election was caused by the resignation of the new Conservative councillor after just 4 months at Pippbrook.

The full result was:

• Iain Murdoch (Lib Dem) 618
• Conservative 558
• UKIP 97
• Green 61

Following this result, the Council has the following membership: 18 Liberal Democrats, 17 Conservatives, 5 Ashtead Independents and 1 other Independent.

Iain Murdoch said: "I am delighted at the support I have received and will continue to do my best to serve all the residents of our villages. This election has shown that local people want councillors who listen to their concerns and campaign on issues that they think are important. I would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who helped and supported me in this campaign".

Iain Murdoch is also the Campaign Organiser for "Faster Internet for Surrey" and has campaigned to get many local villages enabled for broadband access for local residents and businesses.