Controversial community champion Ken Robson has been elected on to Great Aycliffe Town Council after winning the West ward by-election.
From a paltry turnout of just 14.3%, Councillor Robson won 55% of the vote, with 334 against the Labour Party’s candidate Peter Lewis, who polled 268.
Cllr Robson, chairman of the ACORN Residents Association and vice chairman of the Great Aycliffe Residents Association, courted controversy last summer with extreme views expressed in an open letter, in which he favoured capital punishment for murderers and child molesters, public floggings for thieves and fraudsters and full frontal lobotomies for burglars.
He has faced criticism from his Labour opponents, although Mr Robson claims to be “pro Labour”.
“I share the same values as many Labour voters, but feel it is important to be able to speak freely in the public interest without being ruled by the Party whip,” said Cllr Robson.
“It is not easy to beat the Labour Party machinery, but the people of West ward have shown that there is room for good quality hard working, non Labour people on the council.
“I would like to personally and sincerely thank the residents of West ward for their support and the many messages of congratulations received by email, phone and social media.
“I am honoured and privileged to be able to represent the Town Council which I will to the best of my ability.
“I would also like to thank Cllr George Gray and Cllr Billy Blenkinsopp for their advice and assistance.”
Residents can contact Cllr Robson on 01325 321471, 07743 046804 or [email protected]
