Welwyn Hatfield’s Liberal Democrats hailed their “fantastic” county council election success, which saw the party gain more than a quarter of the overall votes.

Following the county council election last Thursday the party gained two more seats (18 total) and 25.1 per cent of the overall vote – compared to Labour’s 20.5 per cent and 45.9 per cent for the Tories.

Among the successful candidates was Paul Zukowskyj in Hatfield South, who successfully defended the seat with more than 50 per cent of the vote.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to continue as the councillor for Hatfield South, and I’m very humbled by the resounding endorsement residents have given me.”

Nigel Quinton was also elected as county councillor for Handside and Peartree, while Barbara Gibson – standing in her first ever election – took the Haldens seat, previously held by Tory Sara Johnston.

Speaking after the count, Cllr Nigel Quinton said: “I’d just like to thank Malcolm [Cowan] for all the work he has put into being a county councillor for the past 12 years.

“My majority of 818 votes is entirely down to his efforts on behalf of the people of Handside and Peartree, and I just hope I can live up to his example.”

Barbara Gibson said: “In Haldens Division, this election was about residents being fed up with not being listened to by their elected representatives.

“People are tired of Monopoly-like behaviour and fake consultations that ignore their concerns.

“They sent a clear message that it’s time for a change, and I’m looking forward to championing their issues.”