HIGHWORTH; CON HOLD: A solid Conservative foundation in Highworth ensured that newcomer councillor Anthony Peake took more than half the vote.

Coun Peake who has never served as a borough councillor received just under 51 per cent of the vote more than 25 per cent more than closest rival, Labour candidate, Lynn Vardy.

Mr Peake said he was pleased with the result and the turnout of just over one-third of the ward electorate.

He said: "I am very excited, and I hope to be a good voice for the residents of Highworth. I aim to try and find out where our council tax is going.

"There are also many issues in Highworth that need addressing most people would like to see a roof over the Highworth Rec pool and a reduction in youth crime."

The Highworth ward has always been a Conservative stronghold in 2003 they received 46 per cent of the vote and in 2002 took 50 per cent.