The Conservative party has held onto its seat in a Suffolk County Council by-election following a narrow victory over the Green party.

Voting took place last Thursday for the Hoxne & Eye division, following the death of Conservative councillor Peter Gould in July.

Candidate Henry Lloyd achieved 895 votes to hold the seat for the party with a majority of four.

The Green candidate Joanne Brooks came second with 891 votes. 

At 23, he is one of the youngest councillors in SuffolkAt 23, he is one of the youngest councillors in Suffolk (Image: Suffolk Conservatives) Mr Lloyd, who lives near Laxfield, said: "I’d like to thank everyone in Hoxne & Eye Division who put their faith in me on Thursday.

"I’m committed to working hard on their behalf and on behalf of everyone in our area regardless of their politics or how they cast their vote.

“Ours is an incredibly special area but together we can make it even better. I’m determined not to shy away from challenging issues and to look at things like HGV routes in a fresh way that does not pit communities against each other."

Mr Lloyd, who at 23 is one of the youngest councillors in the county, added he aims to "hit the ground running".

Councillor Matthew Hicks said: “From being out on the doorstep with Henry multiple times during the campaign, it’s clear he is a wise head on young shoulders and I’m excited to see him bring that voice to our group."

Green party candidate Joanne Brooks said: “I’m incredibly proud of the campaign the Green Party ran with the support we received from the community and our dedicated volunteers.

"This result shows that the people of Hoxne & Eye division are ready for change, and while we may have fallen just short this time, we’ve continued to build on our strong foundation for future success."

The by-election had a turn out of 24.58%. 

Results in full

Henry Lloyd (C) 895 

Joanne Brooks (G) 891 

Timothy Glenton (LD) 102

Paul Theaker (L) 89