LABOUR became the dominant party in Salisbury City Council last week following the election of Sharon Rideout.

Ms Rideout, who will represent the St Francis and Stratford ward, joined the council following the results of a by-election – the result of which makes Labour the largest party in Salisbury City Council since its formation in 2009.

She was elected with 551 votes for Labour, ahead of the 389 votes won by the Conservative party candidate, with the Liberal Democrat candidate following behind with 359 votes.

Labour now hold eight of the 24 Salisbury City Council seats. The Liberal Democrats retain seven seats, the Conservative party hold five, and there are two independents.

Ms Rideout campaigned on a platform to “bring heart and soul to St Francis & Stratford.”

She has pledged to work for more environmental sustainability and more affordable entertainment options, as well as opportunities and community services for all age groups.

Ms Rideout said: “Thank you to everyone who came out to vote in the St Francis and Stratford by-election.

Labour has become the largest party in Salisbury City Council since its formation in 2009 Picture: Sharon Rideout

“It was lovely to meet so many of the residents in our ward.

“I am very thankful to all who voted for me and honoured to have been elected as your city councillor.

“I am looking forward to working closely with John Wells and will be working hard to make our very special ward, a place where we all feel safe, valued and happy.”

Ms Rideout’s result follows a ground-breaking general election campaign run by Labour’s Matt Aldridge, who came close second behind the incumbent John Glen MP.

Mr Aldridge helped take nearly 17,000 votes away from Glen’s previous majority, making Salisbury a marginal seat for the first time in 100 years.