WARRINGTON and Halton Green Party has secured its first seat in the town – despite winning 18 votes in a parish by-election.

Greens leader Steph Davies and Appleton's Liberal Democrat borough councillor Sharon Harris, who secured 155 votes, won seats on Walton Parish Council, in the Lower Walton ward.

The Greens were hoping to claim both seats up for grabs but Lyndsay McAteer fell short after getting just 14 votes.

Turnout was 16 per cent, with one ballot paper rejected.

Ms Davies is vowing to campaign against the Western Link in her role.

She said: "I am delighted to take up the post of parish councillor for Walton and I look forward to being able to represent the Green Party on the council.

"This is the first hopefully of a number of seats for the Greens in Warrington.

"We are already supporting a number of groups in the area and I am excited to learn more about the issues facing residents and being able to contribute to resolving some of these."

The 18 votes won by Ms Davies is believed to be the lowest ever recorded to win a borough, or parish, seat in Warrington.

Cllr Harris said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been so resoundingly elected as a parish councillor for Walton.

"As a resident for 15 years, I know and love Walton with a passion and, I believe, those who voted recognised that I will continue to campaign on the issues that affect residents, from the big issues, such as the local plan and the Western Link to the smaller everyday issues such as potholes, pavements, traffic speed and litter.

"Walton Parish Council is not a political council.

"However, I am proud to have been elected under the Liberal Democrat banner as the Liberal Democrats have a good reputation for serving the community, helping and respecting all residents.

"The Green Party called an election on a single issue but I think residents realised that they needed a truly local person to represent them. 

"I would like to thank those who voted for me for putting their trust in me and I pledge to continue to work hard on their behalf."

Labour members are also celebrating after winning in the Birchwood Town Council by-election.

Julia Ellis triumphed with 353 votes in the Locking Stumps ward, with Liberal Democrat Matt Scott losing out with 128 votes.

Turnout was just under 18 per cent, with 11 spoiled ballot papers.

Ms Ellis said: "I am delighted to have been elected to Birchwood Town Council and would like to thank voters in Locking Stumps for the trust and faith they have placed in me.

"I can't wait to get straight to work for our community."

A spokesperson from Warrington North Labour Party added: "We are delighted with the election of Julia Ellis to Birchwood Town Council.

"Julia will be a passionate voice for Locking Stumps and deliver on her commitments to residents."