TWO councillors representing Launceston and surrounding areas will be returning to their duties after comfortably winning their bid to be re-elected.

Adam Paynter, the independent candidate for Launceston North and North Petherwin, and Adrian Parsons, the Liberal Democrat candidate for Altarnun and Stoke Climsland both won their seats, meaning they will serve another term as their community’s representative at New County Hall.

They will be joined by a new face in the form of Damon Dennis, the Liberal Democrat candidate for Launceston North who successfully defeated former Conservative rebel and independent candidate John Conway.

In Altarnun and Stoke Climsland, Mr Parsons achieved 1,666 votes in his bid for re-election, a margin of 990 votes over second placed Peter Swann for Reform UK.

Reform UK were also second placed in Launceston North and North Petherwin, with Paul Radley achieving 659 votes, beaten only by Adam Paynter’s 1,011 votes.

The tightest race was in Launceston South, where Damon Dennis achieved 606 votes to John Conway’s 541.

Adrian Parsons said after his win: “On behalf of my family and myself, I would just like to say a big thank you for all the support we have received running up to the election and to everyone who turned out to vote. We genuinely do appreciate it, to be a returned as your Cornwall Councillor is an absolute privilege. We go again!”

Adam Paynter said: “I am pleased to say that I have been returned to the council with an increased majority. I will continue to work hard for our area.”

John Conway said after his defeat: “Many thanks to all who supported me today. Unfortunately, I came second in the Cornwall Council election. I wish Cllr Damon Dennis a successful four years representing Sunny Lanson.

“I was re-elected to Launceston Town Council and will do my best to represent all residents.”