The people of Milton Regis have spoken, with Labour gaining a seat on Swale council.

Tony Winckless won, being elected after 23.4% of the constituency cast their votes on Thursday, August 3.

He got 573 votes, working out at almost 54% of the total.

Winckless had represented Milton Regis on the council before losing his seat to Ukip's Katy Coleman in 2015.

The seat became vacant after her sudden death in May.

Mr Winckless, the only candidate to live in the area, said: “I’m very pleased I’ve won, it was a hard fought campaign and I can’t wait to get to work.

“On my agenda are road issues, sorting out the pavement, addressing the state of the play area and the Northern Relief Road.”

Cllr Roger Truelove, representative for Homewood and Labour group leader, said he was delighted with the result.

“Most people in Milton preferred Tony as a candidate because of his experience and dedication,” he said.

“We came across a lot of unhappiness for the way the council has been run by the Tories.

“Part of what’s happening this summer is that there’s a big political change – we’ve had stunning victories in Margate and Worthing too.”

In second was Kane Blackwell for the Conservatives, with 255 votes.

He is the youngest person to ever stand for election to Swale council at just 18.

He said: “I am happy, it’s been a fantastic experience all in all.

“In only 18 months, it’ll be 2019 anyway – you’ve not seen the last of me.”

Richard Palmer, Ukip, got 151 votes and Liberal Democrat Tony Clark got 86 votes.

Mr Palmer said: “The result is the result, it shows the strength of having a local candidate.
“We just carry on now, politics isn’t a one day event.”