Local election victory for Thame Tories

AFTER the tension and excitement of yesterday’s local by-election, Thame’s two new town councillors woke up this morning to the reality of their new responsibilities.
The turn out was 27.14%, slightly down on the last local election, and Cliff Baker, who gained most of the 1,173 votes (578), seemed particularly surprised at his victory.
After the announcement by the Assistant Returning Officer that he and his fellow Conservative, Mike Welply, had been elected, Cliff Baker said: “What’s really come through in this election is that everyone involved really cares about our special town which has a real heart to it.
“I am proud and humbled to have been elected and promise to work hard for all constituents. I promise to listen to everyone of all persuations and work to maintain and develop our special town.”

Cllr Mike Welply has been both a town and a district councillor before, as well as Mayor of Thame, losing his district council seat to Richard Walker at the last local election.

Although Richard Walker stepped down from the Town Council after his wife, Claire, became illegible to continue as a town councillor, he continues as a district councillor.

This is Cliff Baker’s first sortie into local politics.

Photo: Left: Mike Welply, Right: Clifford Baker