Labour has taken back control of Deal Town Council following the election of former lecturer Nick Tomaszewski, yesterday.

Mr Tomaszewski, 73, beat off competition from Conservative Juliette Short to gain a seat in the Middle Deal ward.

The by-election came after former councillor Emma Carr (Cons) stood down from her role to spend more time with her family.

Mr Tomaszewski, who received 1,680 votes, 520 more than his opponent, said: “I’m absolutely over the moon. I’m really pleased with the people of Middle Deal who placed their trust in me. I will certainly do all I can to represent them.”

The lifelong Labour supporter was born in Canterbury and moved to Deal in the 1960s.

He later moved away for work but on his retirement as a senior lecturer in Canterbury two years ago, he came back to Deal.

He lives with his wife Muriel in of Church Lane, Deal, and the couple have four children and nine grandchildren.

This morning, he told Kent Online that his priorities include looking at parking in Middle Deal Road, taking an interest in Quinn Estates’ proposed development behind Albert Road and cyclists in the High Street.

He added: “I’ve canvassed heavily and got to know a vast number of people in the Middle Deal ward. They have been brilliant but the ones that have really inspired me are the people of Deal in the Labour group, especially Bryn, Pam and Clair Hawkins and Lee Kettlewell. My thanks goes to them.”

County, Dover district and Deal town councillor Mike Eddy (Lab) said: “We have gained a seat and gained control of the town council.

“We are very pleased and it’s a tribute to the guys in Middle Deal and our candidate for the work they’ve put in to it.

“We understand the importance of the town council and how much it can do to make a difference.”

Conservative councillor Louise Butler said: “Naturally I am disappointed with the result. However I am happy to work with anyone who will put their town first.”

Mr Tomaszewski will be attend the next full council meeting at Deal Town Hall on Monday.