Yvette welcomes Labour’s win in Airedale and Ferry Fryston.

1330 residents backed Labour’s candidate Les Shaw, who became the new representative for the ward by securing almost 50% of the vote.

The by - election followed the death of long standing Labour councillor Graham Phelps, who died last November.

Support for the Conservatives and the BNP plummeted in comparison to the last time Airedale and Ferry Fryston was contested in 2008. The Tories share of the vote dropped from 18% to 10% and the BNP lost local people’s confidence too – the amount of people backing the BNP fell from 21% to 13%.

Yvette said:

“This result shows that local people want more jobs around here, safer streets and continued help during the recession. Only Labour will guarantee this. That’s why it is great Les was elected. He really cares about the area and will work hard to deliver the best for the community.”