Labour Holds South Bank in Dramatic By-Election
The South Bank ward of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has once again returned Sue Jeffrey to office, but only after one of the closest contests in recent memory. Labour’s veteran councillor secured victory by a margin of just 24 votes over Reform UK’s Adam Jones, in a result that left the Civic Centre in Redcar charged with tension and emotion late into Thursday night.
Jeffrey, who first won the seat in 2009 and held it continuously until stepping aside in 2023, made her political comeback in this by-election. Her return was far from straightforward, with Reform mounting a strong challenge that threatened to overturn Labour’s long-standing dominance in South Bank.
Observers described the atmosphere during the count as “palpable,” with Labour representatives visibly anxious as ballot boxes were opened and tallies scrutinised. Reform activists, buoyed by their growing national profile, were confident they had made inroads. The Conservatives, though not expecting victory, maintained a steady presence, while the Green Party candidate emphasised community issues and sustainability.
When the Deputy Returning Officer finally announced the result, the room erupted in a mix of relief, frustration, and quiet acknowledgement. Labour had held on, but only just, and the closeness of the contest underscored shifting political dynamics in the ward.
Candidate Results
- Sue Jeffrey (Labour Party) – 529 votes
- Adam Jones (Reform UK) – 505 votes
- Richie Kerr-Morgan (Conservative Party) – 187 votes
- Independent Candidate – John Smith – 212 votes
- Sarah Green (Green Party) – 94 votes
A total of 1,527 votes were cast, with turnout reflecting the intensity of the contest despite cold November weather. One ballot paper was rejected after containing inappropriate markings across all boxes, a small but symbolic reminder of voter frustration.
Jeffrey’s victory ensures Labour retains its foothold in South Bank, but the result also highlights the growing challenge posed by Reform UK, who came within touching distance of a breakthrough. For the Conservatives and Greens, the outcome was modest yet steady, while the independent candidate demonstrated that local voices still carry weight in the community.
