A NEW parish councillor was elected in Warndon this week but only seven per cent of voters turned out.

No polling cards were handed out in Warndon North in a bid to save money meaning residents could pick a candidate through a postal vote or or turn up in person on the day and choose.

Andrew Cross came top of the pile with 112 votes and was duly elected to Warndon Parish Council but turnout was low with only 304 votes cast from a possible 4,111.

Mr Cross was hopeful for the future of the parish council following the win and was thankful to his fellow candidates for bring fresh ideas to the table.

He said: "We are really fortunate to have several locals wanting to join the parish council for this voluntary post. Many parish councils struggle to get enough members.

"I would genuinely have been happy for Steph or either of the two Andy's to win this by-election.

"They are good and capable people with fresh ideas to bring to the parish council.

"I hope the trend continues that our parish council engages effectively with local people in the parish, and that plenty of people remain willing to help maintain and improve our parish.

"There'll be lots for me to learn, and I look forward to helping bring some improvements.

"But, first of all, a big thank you to all our neighbours in Warndon Parish North, especially to Steph, Andy Graham and Andy Jones, also to the election services team who had a long day on a bitterly cold Thursday."

Mr Cross, who has lived in Warndon Villages for 18 years, is an active member of St Nicholas Church and the Friends of Warndon Villages and said before the election he was passionate about planning and the sustainable development of the city.

A by-election for Warndon Parish Council was called for December 13 following the resignation of Councillor Les Morris.

As for the rest of the votes, Steph Mills came second with 84 votes, Andy Graham received 63 votes and Andy Jones secured 44 votes.

Of the 304 votes cast, 227 were by post meaning only 77 people turned up on the day to cast a vote.

Andy Jones was upbeat and optimistic despite the defeat and said: "I would have been genuinely pleased regardless of who won.

"I think the important thing is that fresh people are getting involved and giving a new perspective.

"Any one of us would be a great addition as we each have different strengths, so it's a shame there can only be one."

Warndon Parish Council next meets on January 7.