Reform councillor Julian Kirk wins Norfolk County Council by-election in Marshland North

A Reform councillor in West Norfolk has retained his seat following a landslide by-election victory.

Cllr Julian Kirk triggered a Norfolk County Council by-election in Marshland North after defecting from the Tories earlier this year.

And on Friday, he easily claimed back his seat after receiving 1,286 votes - with his closest opponent, Liberal Democrat Alan Holmes, claiming 404.

Conservative Richard Blunt received 389 votes, while 18-year-old independent candidate Michael Squire received just 67.

Cllr Kirk recently compared parts of his area to “the wild west”, claiming there are “no go areas” for the police.

He also represents the Walsoken, West Walton and Walpole Ward on West Norfolk Council.

There was a 28.75% turnout at the Marshland North by-election.

Full results:

• Rob Archer (Green Party) - 75 votes

• Richard Blunt (Conservatives) - 389 votes

• Matt Hannay (Labour Party) - 120 votes

• Alan Holmes (Liberal Democrat) - 404 votes

• Julian Kirk (Reform UK) - 1,286 votes

• Michael Squire (Independent) - 67 votes