THE LIBERAL Democrats have clinched another seat on Teignbridge Council after winning the Kenn Valley by-election.

Kevin Smith beat off competition from Reform UK by polling more than double its votes in the battle for the seat.

The by-election saw a 31 per cent turnout of the electorate.

Recently retired Kevin, who has served on Exminster Parish Council, polled 1,116 votes, beating the second place Reform UK candidate Terry Tume who polled 512 votes.

Conservative candidate Lucille Baker received 212 votes and previous Teignbridge councillor for the ward Kevin Lake, who stood as Independent, polled 181.

Full results were: Lucille Baker Conservative, 212 votes; Niall Duffy, Labour, 59 votes; Kevin Lake, Independent, 181; Kevin Smith, Lib Dem, 1,116; Dudley Swain, Independent, 12; Terry Tume, Reform UK 512; Scott Williams, Green Party 122.