The Liberal Democrats have seized control of Wokingham Town Council after winning a by election.

The election for the Wescott East ward on the council was won by Jane Ainslie, with Conservative candidate Michael Townend failing to defend the seat for the party.

Ms Ainslie won the election comfortably with 167 votes.

Labour candidate Ellie Crabb came in third and final place with 66 votes.

READ MORE: Wokingham Conservatives accused of watering down pledge to end violence against women and girls

Three ballot papers were spoiled.

It means the Lib Dems now have overall control on Wokingham Town Council, which is responsible for parks, the town’s open spaces, Christmas lights and summer decorations, giving grants to charities, and running events such as book festivals and Remembrance Sunday.

Previously, the council was under ‘No Overall Control’ with the Liberal Democrats being the largest party.

Wescott East by election results

Jane Louise Ainslie – 479

Michael Anthony Townend – 312

Eleanor Lucinda Finlayson Crabb – 66

Composition of Wokingham Town Council 

Wokingham Town Council is now made up of:

Liberal Democrats – 13

Conservatives – 6

Labour – 3

Independent – 3

The by-election was triggered after former Conservative councillor Julian McGhee-Sumner accepted a job oversees.

Mr McGhee-Sumner had served as a town councillor and former leader of the borough council from October 2018 to May 2019, until he was defeated by Liberal Democrat Maria Gee in the Local Elections.

The election was held on Thursday, November 25.