Nick Mearing-Smith, the Conservative candidate in the Edgware by-election was declared the winner after the ballot was counted at Alexandra Palace. The council seat was previously held by Conservative Brian Gordon, who sadly died of cancer last year.

The full number of ballots cast were as follows:

Conservative: 3,427

Labour: 1,456

Green: 343

Liberal Democrat: 254

Majority: 1,971

Matthew said: “Even though we had hoped to retain this ward, the Conservative party candidate and our supporters worked hard for every single vote, never taking anyone or their support for granted.

“As a local resident, Nick will be a fantastic addition to the Conservative team on Barnet Council bringing with him a wealth of experience in business and politics.”