Lib-Dems get double win in Scottish council elections

Published on Friday 24 April 2009 15:49

THE Liberal Democrats celebrated twin by-election victories in the north of Scotland today.

Rosemary Bruce, wife of Gordon's MP Malcolm Bruce, triumphed against the Tories at Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside in an Aberdeenshire Council poll declared this afternoon.

Although trailing in the first count, she won after elimination from the field of other candidates and distribution of their supporters' lower preferences.

Net swing from Tory to Lib Dem on the first count was just under 10%.

In a Highland Council contest at Inverness West, Liberal Democrat Alasdair Christie took a previously independent seat.

There was a net swing to his party of more than 20% against the SNP.

He polled well over half the votes and was elected at the first – and only – stage of the count.

The Tories came fourth behind the Christian Party.

Mr Bruce hailed the Aberdeenshire triumph, saying: "Rosemary and I met through politics. I am delighted that she has been elected in her own right."

Mrs Bruce fought two Commons contests in Beckenham, south east London, in 1997.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott said: "This is another stunning triumph for the Lib Dems. Rosemary Bruce will be a strong and focused councillor for Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside.

"This is a fantastic day for Liberal Democrats. Two by-election victories are a real boost as we head into the European elections.

"The Tories threw everything at the Aboyne by-election but were still beaten by strong local Lib Dem campaign. The SNP, for all their big talk, were hammered in Inverness."