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Buckie by-election: Newly elected SNP councillor John Stuart ‘ready to get down to council business’ with his first full council meeting on Monday

New Buckie SNP councillor John Stuart is ready to hit the ground-running with his first full council meeting on Monday.

This will be the community champion’s first challenge in the post.

Mr Stuart joins party colleague Sonya Warren and independent councillor Neil McLennan in representing the ward.

This by-election was sparked by Lib Dems Christopher Price resigning after just three months in the role. He said he was struggling to balance his council duties with his full-time job.

SNP John Stuart is delighted with by-election win.<br />Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

The result means there are now nine SNP members in Moray Council, nine Conservatives, one Green, three independent councillors, three Labour representatives and James Allan who is a non-aligned Conservative.

So, the SNP have the same number of councillors as the minority Conservative administration.

Community champion clinches election victory

Mr Stuart has worked in social care with older people and adults with learning disabilities since 1996.

The care inspector with the Care Inspectorate took the vacant seat after a count at Buckie’s Fisherman’s Hall, with 1,172 votes.

Supporters celebrate as John Stuart wins Buckie seat. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

He beat former Moray Tory leader Tim Eagle, who got 879 votes.

The new councillor told the P&J: “It is unusual that there will be a full council meeting on Monday.

“So, it is the case of hitting the ground running, having a party brief on Sunday night and into full council meeting on Monday.

“I’m ready to get down to council business and deliver for the area.

“Thanks to everyone for the support it is much appreciated.

Current Buckie councillor Sonya Warren, newly elected Buckie councillor John Stuart and MSP Karen Adam. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

He thanked councillor Sonya Warren for her advice and support with the campaign to get elected.

Mrs Warren was first voted into Moray Council through a by-election too.

He added:  “Sonya has been amazing, and I have known her for a number of years.

“Phenomenal support from Sonya and she gave good insight into the role before I thought about coming forward for the role.

“Also gave me a clear understanding of what I’m getting into next week.

“She has offered advice and the knowledge has been brilliant.”

“Her dedication to canvassing too has been fantastic.”

What was the turnout like?

In total, 2,408 votes were casted, representing a 29.6% turnout. Around 13 votes were rejected.

Independent candidate Neil Houlden went out at the first stage with 38 votes. Liberal Democrat Les Tarr was out at the second stage with 67 votes. Labour’s Keighly Goudie left at the third stage with 239 votes.

Here are more of photographer Jason Hedges’ pictures from the by-election:

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