CONSERVATIVE representative Steve Jeffries has won the Copheap Ward by-election in Warminster, beating independent and Labour Party candidates in the process.

The 51-year-old, who lives in Beech Grove with his wife, Sarah, and two children, wants to tackle litter and parking issues in the ward.

However, Warminster councillors have criticised the Labour Party for choosing to hold an election when there is another one eight months away, claiming it will cost the town council thousands of pounds.

Mr Jeffries said: “I’m keen to get stuck in and make a difference – I want to be involved as much as I can.

“Some residents have mentioned a litter problem in the area and also vehicles parking inappropriately, so I will look to see how those issues can be addressed.

“I’m very pleased to be nominated and look forward to getting started. I really want to do my best and help people.”

Of the 1,344 people who live in the ward, 181 votes were made with Mr Jeffries picking up 105. He will be officially sworn in at a town council meeting held on November 21.

Cllr Pip Ridout was one of the councillors who criticised the decision made by the Labour Party to call an election.

She said: “We are pleased to welcome Steve on board, he is very talented and enthusiastic and we are sure he will do a brilliant job.

“But I would like to point out that holding an election now, just eight months away from another one, is a complete waste of time and money.

“After sending out ballot cards, having to book out the hall and other expenses, it could easily cost the town council between three and five thousand pounds.”

Chairman of the South West Labour Constituency, Mike Sutton, defended the decision.

He said: “We did not make the law, it was a Conservative Government that set the rules which state a by-election can be called at any time as long as there are 10 electors who want it.

“It’s democracy at work and we are entitled to stand for vacancies. If they were concerned about the costs they could have approached us to discuss a co-option.

“I think the reason we were unsuccessful is because it was the first time we have stood there for over 10 years, but we are increasing membership across the South West all the time."