Jenny Linehan has won the Leaderdale & Melrose by-election, held on Thursday 12th March.
She won at Stage 7. The first preferences were:
Jenny Linehan (Scottish Conservative) 1380
John Paton Day (SNP) 1042
Jonny Adamson (Scottish Liberal Democrats) 538
Mary Douglas (Independent) 159
Michael Needham (Scottish Green) 152
Scott Redpath (Scottish Labour) 115
Karen Wilks (Independent) 69
Jenny Linehan said:
“First of all, I would like to pay tribute to the work and public service of Kevin Drum, who represented Leaderdale and Melrose since 2017.
“I would also like to thank the diligent work of Scottish Borders Council for holding a safe by-election during a pandemic. Their work has been vital in ensuring democracy can continue, despite everything else going on. Officials did a fantastic job of making sure everyone voted safely and securely.
“I am overwhelmed by the support I have received from local residents. I am itching to get going and representing everyone who lives in our area. I will not let you down.
“Melrose, Lauder, Earlston, and surrounding villages face a tough period ahead with Covid restrictions being with us for many months to come. It is my priority to help protect jobs and help us recover from the economic shock of Covid-19.
“I am excited to work with Cllr Shona Haslam and her team to improve the local area, and deliver for the Scottish Borders.”
