THE Liberal Democrats were victorious in yesterday's borough council by-election in Whitchurch.

Eric Dunlop was elected by 858 votes, a majority of 149 over Conservative rival Bill Judge, while Labour candidate James Gibb received 58 votes.

The turnout on the day was 42.5 per cent.

Mr Dunlop joins Councillor Keith Watts in representing Whitchurch on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, where the Conservatives maintain a one-seat majority.

The by-election was necessary following the death of Liberal Democrat councillor Alison Wall on August 20.