Salesman James Minter won a seat for the Conservatives on Snodland Town Council following a by-election last night.

The 52-year-old family man's appointment to represent Snodland West and Holborough Lakes ward comes following the death of Anne Moloney from lung cancer in October.

Mr Minter, who works in the flooring industry, took 49% of the vote with 380 votes, followed by Wayne Mallard (Lab) with 273 and Luke Chapman (Lib Dem) with 123.

The overall turnout was 17%.

Speaking prior to the by-election, Mr Minter said: "Snodland is a fantastic place to live, with a wealth of facilities.

"I believe in supporting local businesses, keeping litter where it belongs and want to continue Anne Moloney’s work in creating a real feeling of community."