CONSERVATIVE Vale councillor Rachel Nugent-Finn won the Cadoc ward Barry Town Council seat by 14 votes in the by-election held last week.

On Thursday, May 24 Cllr Nugent-Finn, who already holds one of the three Vale council Cadoc positions, secured the victory with 534 votes.

Labour Buttrills ward Vale councillor, Owen Griffith polled 520 votes with Plaid Cymru candidate Dennis Clarke receiving 469 votes.

Five votes were unmarked or void in the by-election which recorded a 28.68 per cent turnout.

The by-election was called following the death of Labour BTC Cadoc councillor Jane Andrews in January this year.

Cllr Nugent-Finn said she was “over the moon” to win and was now keen to engage in Barry Town Council business.

She said: “It was a fantastic campaign. I engaged with my residents all over my ward and was able to reflect on what we have achieved and perhaps more importantly, what we want to further gain to benefit this diverse and wonderful ward.

“The main theme when I was talking to people was that it was refreshing to talk about actual achievements as opposed to what hasn’t yet been put in to action.

“The overwhelming message was clear to me.

"People, families, individuals want change, choice and clear communication.

“I meet that criteria and my approach was always person centred, actively listening to each and every one.

"Thank you to every single individual who took the time and effort to vote.

“I’ve already started work on specific areas including, traffic control and speed awareness on Coldbrook Estate as well as more sensitive cases affecting families.

“The team approach was what really made the difference to this election.”

Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns and leader of the Welsh Conservatives Andrew RT Davies offered their congratulations.

Mr Cairns said: “Huge congratulations to Rachel on her success and thank you to all those who voted for her.

“She will do a great job and as ever, we will work closely together.”

Mr Davies said the success was "testament to the enormous efforts" of the candidate, adding that he believes it shows how "people across the country want greater democratic accountability, better public services, and more say on the decisions that affect them."