Liberal Democrats celebrate big wins in Harpenden Rural

The Liberal Democrats are on track to win the new Harpenden & Berkhamsted constituency at the next General Election after big wins in local by-elections yesterday. 

Newly elected County Councillor Allison Wren overturned a 1580 vote majority to gain Harpenden Rural County Division from the Conservatives, whilst new District Councillor Simon Johns held the seat in Sandridge & Wheathampstead ward.

The by-elections, both in the new constituency of Harpenden & Berkhamsted, are a huge boost to parliamentary candidate Victoria Collins and the Liberal Democrats working to win the seat at the General Election, which could only be a matter of months away.

Victoria Collins said: “These results are a ringing endorsement of the brilliant campaign that Allison and Simon have run, as well as the strong Liberal Democrat record of action in communities right across our part of Hertfordshire.

“It is clearer than ever before that the next election here will be a two-horse race between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives. Labour won’t win here – they aren’t even close.

“Right across Harpenden & Berkhamsted, people are telling us time and time again that enough is enough - they are fed up of being taken for granted by the Conservatives, and it’s time for change.”

Steve Jarvis, leader of the Lib Dem group on Hertfordshire County Council, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Allison to our county group, and I know she will be a passionate and tireless champion for the people of Harpenden Rural.

“This result should send a clear message to the Conservatives ahead of the General Election and the County elections in May 2025. Voters right across Hertfordshire are sick and tired of Conservative chaos in national government and at County Hall, and they are turning to the Liberal Democrats in droves.”

Helen Campbell, deputy leader of St Albans District Council, added: “I know that Simon Johns will be a brilliant district councillor for Sandridge and Wheathampstead, and his commitment to making his community the best it can be is inspiring. I’d like to thank the people of Harpenden Rural and St Albans District for continuing to put their faith in the Liberal Democrats.”