Solihull Borough Conservatives have increased their majority at SMBC following success at this week’s local elections. Their most stunning victory came in the Olton Ward where newly elected Councillor Katy Blunt defeated the incumbent, John Windmill (Lib Dem), who had held his seat since 1982.
The party also won in Lyndon Ward where Paul Thomas romped to victory with over 40% of the total number of votes cast.
Meriden MP Dame Caroline Spelman said, “These results demonstrate how across our Borough, residents are putting their trust in the Conservatives in deliver quality public services and will not be swayed by political parties grandstanding on national issues with no relevance to local Government”.
“My congratulations to Cllr Paul Thomas and Cllr Katy Blunt on their election success”.
Julian Knight MP said: “I am delighted that both Katy Blunt and Paul Thomas have been elected. I am certain that both of our new Councillors will work tirelessly for both Olton and Lyndon. The victories for both candidates against Liberal Democrat Councillors confirms a shift in the political landscape across the Borough. I wish both new Councillors the best of luck in their new roles”.
Following the dramatic count, which was held at the North Solihull Sports Centre, the ruling Conservative group now has 32 councillors whilst the Greens have 11 councillors (up from ten). The Lib Dems are on four (down two), Labour have two (up one) and UKIP lost their only representative. The borough's remaining councillor is an independent.