The Liberal Democrats have held two seats in by-elections in South Norfolk. 

South Wymondham, and Mulbarton and Stoke Holy Cross wards went to the polls on Thursday returning Lib Dems to both seats.

The elections were held following the death and resignation of two councillors. 

Eastern Daily Press: Carmina McConnell, Liberal Democrat district councillor for South WymondhamCarmina McConnell, Liberal Democrat district councillor for South Wymondham (Image: South Norfolk Liberal Democrats)

While the Lib Dems came away with a 233-vote lead over their nearest rivals in Mulbrton, the South Wymondham poll was much closer, with just 18 votes in it. 

The results were: 

South Wymondham: Lowell Doheny (Labour) 173, Martyn Lemon (Conservative) 268, Carmina McConnell (Liberal Democrat) 286, Victoria Walters (Green) 89. 

Mulbarton and Stoke Holy Cross: Tony Holden (C) 434, Nigel Legg (Independent) 404, Robert McClenning (LD) 667, Geraldine Smith-Cullen (L) 164, Claire Sparkes (G) 128. 

On the same day, there was also a by-election for Wymondham Town Council, which was won by Lib Dem Dave Roberts.  

Eastern Daily Press: Dave Roberts, Liberal Democrat councillor for Wymondham Town CouncilDave Roberts, Liberal Democrat councillor for Wymondham Town Council (Image: South Norfolk Liberal Democrats)

Chris Brown, leader of the Lib Dem group at South Norfolk Council (SNC), said: “I’m delighted that my colleagues Bob and Carmina will be joining us. 

“They are both excellent, local candidates, and they will serve their communities well.” 

Ms McConnell is a trained psychologist and served as an assistant headteacher for 12 years. 

Mr McClenning is a familiar face to the authority, having previously served on SNC for 12 years, including two terms as chairman.  

The Wymondham election was held following the death of Julian Halls, a Lib Dem councillor.    

Mr Halls died on July 18, following a “short illness”, having been a councillor since May 2019.    

The Mulbarton and Stoke Holy Cross seat was held following the resignation of fellow Lib Dem councillor Julian Fulcher.   

Mr Fulcher was only elected to the council in May and in a resignation statement said he had been forced to stand down after being “unable to take the flexible retirement option” he had hoped for and was unable to devote the time he had hoped to the role.