A NEWLY elected parish councillor said today (Friday, May 9) she is looking forward to getting down to work.

Councillor Margaret Eadsforth, of the Labour party, won the fiercely fought Trimdon Foundry by election yesterday (Thursday, May 8).

The former businesswoman secured 201 votes, with Derek Bradley, an independent, receiving 123.

Coun Eadsforth, 56, said: This is my community, a community in which I have lived all of my life and feel passionate about.

“I made the decision to stand for election to give something back to, and change that community for the better.”

Coun Eadsforth thanked everyone who voted for her, and said: “It is all too apparent from your concerns on the doorstep over the past few weeks that there is an awful lot of work to be done in Trimdon Foundry but I am up for that challenge and look forward to getting started.

“The election campaign has been an amazing opportunity to hear from and meet so many of you but now the hard work begins.

“I am committed to being your voice, raising your concerns and working with the whole community.

“Your resounding support for me yesterday shows that we are ready for that change and by working together we can achieve it.”

The election received a 34 per cent turnout - high for a parish council.