A NEW face will be representing Holsworthy and surrounding areas at Devon County Council for the next four years after the area was swept up in the turquoise tsunami that saw Reform UK win seats across Devon.

The new councillor for the Holsworthy Rural area will be Lynne Rowsell, representing Reform UK who won the vote with 1,753 votes.

It was a closely run race with less than a hundred votes between Ms Rowsell and the second placed challenger, Holsworthy mayor Nigel Kenneally, representing the Liberal Democrats who achieved 1,665 votes.

Outgoing councillor for the area, Stephen Gibson was in third place with 1,099 votes with candidates for the Green party and the Labour party in fourth and fifth place respectively.

A delighted Ms Rowsell said after her victory: “What an amazing journey this campaign has been! I wanted to thank each and every one of the voters that put their faith and trust in me. I am both humbled and delighted to be given this opportunity.

“There is a lot of work that needs to be done but we can do it!”

A disappointed Stephen Gibson said he felt that voters saw the election as having ‘focused on national problems’. He said: “It seems the voters have focused on national political problems instead of passionate local individuals.

“My care for Holsworthy Rural hasn’t changed, and I will continue to support this local area.”

Nigel Kenneally, the Liberal Democrat wished the new councillor well, adding: “Just wanted to thank everyone who helped me deliver leaflets, the Lib Dem team, the other candidates and everyone who voted for me.

“I must say congratulations to Lynne Rowsell for Reform UK. I look forward to working with you.

“It wasn't to be this time, but when the new unitary elections happen you can bet, I'll be up for it.”