Mum-of-three Liz Brennan has been elected as the new Conservative Councillor for Frenchay and Downend following a wave of local support for her campaign in the recent by-election.

Having secured 1,819 votes, the outcome of the by-election sees the South Gloucestershire Council Conservative Group retain the seat, which was vacated by Jon Hunt last year, and restores their majority in the Council Chamber to five.

In joining South Gloucestershire Council, and existing Conservatives Councillors Ben Burton and James Griffiths to represent the Frenchay and Downend Ward, Liz brings with her a wealth of campaigning experience, which earlier this year helped her to secure additional support for Downend High Street as part of a £120,000 Council investment, following an impassioned call to the Council’s Cabinet.

Liz has also played a significant role in the national campaign for life-changing new medicines for people living with cystic fibrosis after her six-year-old daughter was diagnosed with the debilitating condition, taking part in public events as well as interviews on national television and meeting face to face with Government ministers – both in Parliament and in South Gloucestershire.

More locally, Liz was also responsible for launching the popular campaign to deliver free swimming for pregnant women in South Gloucestershire’s leisure centre, alongside MP Luke Hall, which in 2019 was successful, giving an extra opportunity for expectant mums to stay healthy during their pregnancies.

Councillor Liz Brennan said: “Being given this opportunity by the people of Frenchay and Downend to represent our local community is a great honour and I look forward to representing residents on the Council alongside Ben and James, providing a strong voice for our communities. I am extremely passionate about delivering positive change and cannot wait to get started on delivering for the people who have elected me.”

Councillors Ben Burton and James Griffiths, who also represent the Frenchay and Downend Ward, said: “We are delighted to welcome Liz to the team and know she will be a valuable asset. With the new Frenchay Primary School building set to begin construction this year and our campaign to promote and enhance our High Street continuing to build momentum, it is an exciting time for our area, and we look forward to working with Liz to continue delivering on the priorities of local people.”

Councillor Toby Savage, the Conservative Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, added: “I am pleased to have such a passionate and committed campaigner as Liz join the Council and am sure she will be a fantastic representative for the people of Frenchay and Downend.”