Conservatives clinch vacant Church Stretton and Craven Arms seat

South Shropshire businessman Lee Chapman clinched the post yesterday beating off the challenge from Labour's Clive Leworthy and Liberal Democrat Bob Welch.

Mr Chapman, 47, who used to manage the Long Mynd Hotel, polled 1,216 votes, Mr Welch, a former mayor of Church Stretton received 969, whilst Mr Leworthy, current chair of Craven Arms Town Council received 529 votes. The turnout at the by-election was 38 per cent.

Mr Chapman, who has lived in the area for 35 years and also served as a district councillor for five years representing Wistanstow and Hopesay on South Shropshire District Council, said: "I'm really pleased with the result. It's been a lot of hard work. I promised to myself that I would knock every local door before the election.

"I've had a lot of help. My local MP Philip Dunne has helped me on the doorsteps. After celebrating with drinks I will be out on my mountain bike today with my two boys on the Long Mynd relaxing before the hard work begins on Monday. There are plenty of things to get my teeth into."

Ludlow MP Philip Dunne today congratulated Mr Chapman on his success. He said: "Lee has an excellent track record of working hard for his constituents, which I saw firsthand when we worked together on the district council.

"I am delighted that he has been elected to Shropshire Council where I am sure he will make a positive contribution and stand up for local residents of Church Stretton and Craven Arms."