Tory candidate Floss Mitchell has been elected to replace Ferris Cowper as Headey’s county councllor after taking 51 per cent of the votes in the by-election.

Liberal Democrat Trevor Maroney came second with 31 per cent of the vote, while UKIP’s Peter Baillie, was third with 18 per cent.

Mrs Mitchell said the fight to represent Grayshott and Liphook on Hampshire County Council had been an “exhilarating experience”.

“It was hugely enjoyable to meet so many community-minded and passionate people on the door step and at the events I attended,” she said.

“I was amazed by how many people were willing to give up their time to canvass with me, deliver leaflets across the three parishes, and stand outside polling stations on what turned out to be such a lovely sunny day on Thursday - I am very grateful to them all for their hard work, support and advice.

“Now the work really starts.”