LIBERAL Democrat Nicci Court won a landslide victory in the Lyngford by-election for Taunton Deane Council.

The full results from the yesterday's vote were: Nicci Court, Lib Dem, 523; Martin Jevon, Labour, 164; Stephanie Lukins, UKIP, 64; Tonia White, Conservatives, 274.

She said: “I live in North Taunton and I am very proud to have been elected to represent my local community.

“I ran a positive campaign about my plans for better youth facilities, doorstep recycling and high-profile policing. I will be a dedicated councillor and I am delighted that the Liberal Democrats are gaining in popularity in Taunton.”

Council leader Ross Henley said: "This was a fantastic result for the Liberal Democrats and the double majority over the conservatives too. "Well done to Nicci Court."

Taunton MP Jeremy Browne said:“Nicci Court will be a fantastic councillor for Lyngford.

“The result of this by-election shows that Taunton Deane residents support positive Liberal Democrat campaigns to improve our community.

“It is an impressive achievement by Nicci Court to win over half the votes cast and massively increase the Liberal Democrat majority. The Conservatives threw everything at the campaign and must be very disappointed to be going backwards.”