Welsh Labour stormed to victory in a council by-election last night, gaining the Cilfynydd ward on Rhondda Cynon Taf Council from the Liberal Democrats.

The by-election was called after the previous Liberal Democrat councillor, elected in May’s local elections, was disqualified from taking his seat because his civil service post within the fire service was ruled "politically restricted".

The by-election victory increases Labour’s majority on Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council to 14 seats.

Commenting on the Labour by-election victory in Cilfynydd, Cynon Valley Labour AM CHRISTINE CHAPMAN said:

“I would like to congratulate Barrie Morgan on his well deserved victory. He was an excellent local candidate and I am sure that he will be a strong voice for the people of Cilfynydd.

"Since May 2007, when Cilfynydd became a part of the Cynon Valley constituency, I have worked closely with him and know how much time and effort he puts into the community.
“I look forward to this continuing.”

A Welsh Labour spokesman added:

"We’re absolutely delighted to have won yesterday’s by-election. But more importantly, we’re delighted to have won the trust of the people of Cilfynydd.

“The Liberal Democrats let the people of Cilfynydd down badly in May, so there’s little wonder why the people of Cilfynydd have decided to boot the Lib Dems’ out. 

“Welsh Labour’s Barrie Morgan will work tirelessly for the people of Cilfynydd, and will work hard to make sure the needs of the people of Cilfynydd are met.

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RESULTS: Rhondda Cynon Taf - Cilfynydd:

Barrie Morgan – Lab: 331 (43.5% of the vote) (+5.0%)
S. Powell - Lib Dem: 252 (-19.9%)
N.A. Harries – Independent: 85
S. Fisher - Plaid Cymru: 67
J. Matthews – Green Party: 14
C. Ceaton – Conservatives: 12

Swing - 12.5% Lib Dem to Labour

Turnout – 35.47%

(May 2008 Result - Lib Dem 438, Lab 318, Plaid
Cymru 71).