The Liberal Democrats and Reform UK have taken both seats in a fiercely contested Shepton Mallet Town Council by-election — with just eight votes separating second and third place.

Christine Martin-Nicholson stormed to victory in the East Ward vote on Thursday, 23 October 2025, topping the poll with 335 votes.

Reform UK's David Swain secured the second seat with 261 votes — just ahead of Independent Fergus Brown, who finished on 253.

The full results were:

• Christine Martin-Nicholson (Lib Dem): 335 — elected
• David Swain (Reform UK): 261 — elected
• Fergus Brown (Independent): 253
• Richard Last (Conservative): 190

Turnout was focused in the East Ward, where two seats were up for grabs following recent council vacancies.

The result sees Reform UK gain rare ground on the town council, while the Lib Dems maintain a strong foothold in the ward.

More local stories:

• Local schools reveal GCSE results as 2025 data released
• Shepton Mallet restaurant backs local football club

Sign up to our free local newsletter — Our top stories in your inbox every Friday.