The Liberal Democrats have retained their strong majority on Eastleigh Borough Council at a by-election caused by the resignation of the new MP.

Prad Bains won the Hamble and Netley ward by-election on Thursday.

The election was triggered by the resignation of Liz Jarvis, who is now an MP for the Eastleigh constituency.

The political makeup of Eastleigh Borough Council remains at 35 Liberal Democrats, three Independents, and one Conservative.

Cllr Bains secured 52 per cent of the votes, with Reform UK candidate Russ Kitching coming second on 23 per cent.

Conservative candidate Marley Guthrie won 17.9 per cent and Labour's Chris Rogers won 7 per cent of the vote.

The turnout was just shy of 30 per cent.

At the general election in July 2024, Cllr Bains ran to be MP for Hamble Valley, finishing second to Conservative Paul Holmes.

Cllr Bains is also the councillor for the Cowplain and Hart Plain ward, near Waterlooville, on Hampshire County Council.

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Mayor of Eastleigh, Cllr Dave Pragnell, said: “Its great that Mr Bains has been elected as the new councillor for Hamble and Netley, my sincerest congratulations to Mr Bains.

“It’s great that Mr Bains had a sweeping majority of more than 50 per cent.

“I look forward to meeting him formally at our next full council meeting.

“Commiserations to all those unsuccessful candidates, we need all parties and views to be represented during a by-election like this so thank you to all those who fell short.”

Lib Dem Councillor for Hamble and Netley, Cllr Alison Holland, added: “We are really pleased with this result. Our team has worked so hard and I am delighted it all paid off.

“I have worked really closely with Prad on this campaign – going leafleting and speaking to our local people.

“We work really well and Prad knows how to get the best for local people.

“One of our main focuses going forward will be the Hamble Airfield plans, as Cemex has launched its appeal.”

Cllr Bains was approached for comment.