TWO new members have been voted on to North Tawton parish council, after 32 per cent of the population turned out to vote in last Thursday's by-election.

The new members are Stephen Whitely, a plumbing and heating engineer who has served on the town council previously, and Pat Ward, chairman of the town's football club.

In a six-horse race to take the two seats, Mr Whitely polled 218 votes and 178 voters gave Mr Ward the thumbs-up.

Results for the other four candidates were Paul Baker, 74; Ann Brereton, 116, John Crang, 35; and David Simmons, 56.

Mr Ward said he was pleased to have been elected: 'I'm looking forward to fitting in with the group and working with the people we've got there,' he said.

Mr Whitely said he was 'looking foward' to serving on the council but wold like to see more young people standing for election next time.

Chairman of North Tawton Council John Kinsey said the new councillors would be sworn in at next Tuesday's council meeting.

Mr Kinsey said: 'I am delighted that six people stood. All six were very good candidates and I'm sure the two who won will make excellent councillors.'

The by-election was called after councillors Tony Bishop and Jackie Sullivan resigned to pursue other interests.