Conservatives welcome new councillor to the West Berkshire fold

A new Conservative councillor has been elected to West Berkshire Council.

Akinbiyi Oloko won the Tilehurst South and Holybrook with 548 votes.

The election last Thursday was also contested by Labour (387) and the Liberal Democrats (359).

The seat was run as a by-election after the death of incumbent councillor Peter Argyle, after 24 years of service.

“I can’t wait to get started on continuing Peter’s work alongside councillor Richard Somner,” Mr Oloko said.

” I met many of our residents on their doorsteps and their message was very clear, their priorities will be my priorities as I look forward to continuing to build on the good record of the Conservatives led administration.

“Unfortunately, during the campaign some myths were spread regarding our much-loved and well-used Linear Park and I want to straight away dispel the notion that there is any intention to build on it.”

Lynne Doherty, Conservative leader of West Berkshire Council said: “I’m delighted to welcome Biyi to the group. We share a passion for community involvement and I’m sure that he will champion the voice of his residents in this area.

“I’m also pleased that local people recognised that this was a local election about who runs the services that they rely on a daily basis.

“It is testimony to this council’s Conservative administration that people appreciate this in Tilehurst South and Holybrook.”