Becky Coombs wins Instow Byelection for Lib Dems

10 Jan 2025
Becky Coombs at Instow

Becky Coombs has won Instow ward for the Liberal Democrats, in the UK's first byelection of 2025.

The seat was formerly held by the Conservatives, and Becky will be Instow's first Lib Dem District Councillor for over 20 years.

Last night's full results were as follows:

Becky Coombs (Liberal Democrats) - 197 (38%)
Christopher Hopkins (Conservatives) - 166 (32%)
Richard Booth (Reform UK) - 88 (17%)
Charles Payne (Independent) - 49 (10%)
Howard Porter (Green) - 17 (3%)

Lib Dem MP for North Devon Ian Roome congratulated Becky and local volunteers on her win, and called their success in Instow ‘a big step forward.’

Becky is a local resident of Instow and has lived there for the last ten years with her partner Spencer and her dog Burt. Her background working in special needs education and supporting families and young people, including homeless 16-25-year-olds who have left the care system, has given her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by some of the most vulnerable in our community. 

Previously, Becky has worked with the Police and Youth Services to tackle anti-social behavior in the Instow dunes and has advocated for improved facilities at Sandhills and the Cricket Club. She will continue this work as a community campaigner in her new role as councillor.

Our thanks to volunteers from across North Devon, Torridge, Teignbridge and Cornwall, who all helped this fantastic team effort.

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