THE results of the Bude-Stratton Town Council (Bude Ward) by-election held on Thursday, November 28, are as follows:

Independent candidate Victoria (Viki) Agnes Camille Herbert-Coulson — 298.

Independent Peter Moores — 295.

Andrew James, Wright — 319 (elected).

In an electorate of 4,694 a total of 913 ballot papers were issued with a turnout of 19.45%.

Following the election, Mr Wright told the Post: “It’s been a whirl wind of a campaign for me, juggling so much in our lives it is hard to consider adding another plate that you need to spin, especially when you don’t know what is on that plate.

“I’m very busy bringing much needed support to young people in North Cornwall through Kernow Connect a service for wellbeing set up by action for children a national charity. It’s a brand new service that I’ve only been involved in for three months now. I took the leap from a secure position that I had held for 15 years along with a hefty pay decrease. 

“I feel that faith in my moral standing gave me the strength to do this and in turn spurred me on to stand for election.

“I don’t like sofa politics, opinions that don’t lead to any action. Myself and my sister saw the need for youth provision in 2016 and have provided that provision, voluntarily, since then. With very little financial assistance. 

“I honestly don’t know what I’m stepping into but do know that I would like to show that the young people in our town are the glue that can bind this community together. 

“Bude voices is a project that has been building for the past two years in conjunction with the Neetside Centre, pearl exchange and blend bude youth collective. With the fantastic support of Cornwall community foundation and passionate locals we now have a feasibility study completed and are moving to a point that we can generate a theory of change. It’s all very exciting.”

Mr Wright said, although he was pleased to have won, he was disappointed to see so few voters: “I will say I was surprised and saddened by the lack of voters. Less than 20% of those registered to vote actually did.

“It’s peculiar that so much opinion is banded around but the enthusiasm for taking action is lacking. This is something I would like to see if I can change, also try to bring a better understanding of the election process and show the 80% that their participation is vital and needed.

“But to all those that did take the time to make a choice and came out to vote I salute you and thank you for your efforts.

“I will endeavour to understand how I can make changes happen, within the extreme ends of out demographic and to look to support those that are struggling to keep their families in our community. 

“I have no affiliation to a political party, way of thinking or ideal, I see myself as a doer, a man of action. I live by strong morals.”

He added: “I really am looking forward to seeing and hearing what is happening in the council and working with all the other excellent councillor, people and residence to build Bude’s future.”