Local Liberal Democrat councillor Michael Stead has been re-elected to serve Aycliffe North & Middridge after a dramatic and closely fought contest, securing 1001 votes.
The result capped off a high-energy campaign with strong local engagement and a significant turnout from residents keen to have their say in shaping the future of their community.
Reacting to the result, Cllr Stead said: “I’m honoured to have been re-elected as your councillor for Aycliffe North & Middridge. It was a close contest, and I want to start by thanking every single person who took the time to vote.
“To everyone who supported me – thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your faith in me means everything, and I’ll keep working hard every day to represent you with honesty and determination.”
Cllr Stead also expressed his appreciation for his running mate, Lindsey Aston, who continues to serve as a Town Councillor on Great Aycliffe Town Council: “Lindsey has been a brilliant councillor and campaigner, and our community owes her a huge debt of gratitude for all she’s done. I’m proud to continue working alongside her and our team of eight Liberal Democrat councillors on the town council.”
He also paid tribute to all who stood in the election: “Democracy only works when people are willing to step up and take part – and I respect anyone who does.”
Looking ahead, Cllr Stead reaffirmed his commitment to key local priorities: “Now it’s time to get back to work: delivering value for money, tackling antisocial behaviour, protecting our green spaces, and being a strong voice for Aycliffe North and Middridge.”
This year’s election also brought wider success for the Liberal Democrats across County Durham, where they were the only political group to hold all of their county councillor seats – a result that sets them apart from other major parties.
Campaigners credit this to the visible, community-focused work of Liberal Democrat councillors, who continue to act as local champions with a proven record of getting things done.