LAST week's city council by-election results produced no surprises with a low turn out voting to maintain the status quo. The Labour Party held on to Morecambe's Alexandra ward and Skerton West while the Conservatives ran out easy winners in Arkholme. The by-elections were held to fill the seats vacated by Hilton Dawson and Geraldine Smith, who were elected to Westminster, and Vera Kirkby, who resigned due to ill health.

This week party representatives reflected on the by-election results with Labour throwing down the gauntlet to the Independent group, which failed in its bid to become the second largest party on the council. Cllr Trevor Tattersall, election agent for the controversial Alexandra election, where there were accusations of dirty tricks, said: "We were very pleased with the result. The Independents had better watch out in Victoria in 18 months' time. It seems that the dirty tricks didn't work.

Although the turnout was disappointing we did well in what is a very transient area."

Independent election agent, Geoff Wilson, said: "The Labour Party is still riding high on the crest of a national wave but locally it has done nothing for local people and continues to squander public money. We are obviously disappointed with the results but we'll win seats at the next election. We'll be contesting seats across Lancaster and it's the Labour Party that should be worrying."

In Arkholme a good turnout saw the re-election of a Conservative candidate. Tory spokesman, Cllr Geoff Hannah, said: "We were delighted with the result but it was anticipated. Vera Kirkby was very well respected and worked hard for the people of Arkholme."

The victors were: Alexandra - Peter Robinson (Lab), Skerton West - John Harrison (Lab), Arkholme - James Irey (Con)

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