Conservative Chris Wale has been elected as the Sidmouth Rural Ward’s representative on East Devon District Council (EDDC).

Mr Wale received 587 votes, and defeated independent candidate David Barratt (282 votes) and Green Ledsley Howe (175 votes).

Mr Wale said: “Thanks to the people who have invested their faith in me. I look forward to my four years in office.” The ward had a 56.5 per cent turnout.