Former Labour MP's council seat lost as Conservatives regain ground in Hertford Castle and Bengeo North
The Hertford & Stortford Conservatives are celebrating a double victory in the Hertford Town Council by-elections as Conservative candidates Ryan Henson and Susan Barber secured decisive wins in Hertford Castle and Bengeo North wards, respectively.
Ryan Henson, standing for Castle Ward, garnered 551 votes (48%), defeating Labour and Green candidates and reclaiming a seat formerly held by Labour MP Josh Dean—a particularly symbolic win for the Conservatives after Dean’s recent success in the general election.
Susan Barber, a former Mayor of Hertford, triumphed in the Green stronghold of Bengeo North, securing 720 votes (48%) and displacing the Green Party’s grip on the ward. The victory marks a significant shift in local politics and highlights the growing dissatisfaction with the current Green and Labour representation on the town council.
Ryan Henson, the newly elected councillor for Hertford Castle, commented on his win:
"I’m humbled by the support of local residents and grateful for the opportunity to serve our community. This victory is a clear mandate to stand up against Labour and Green councillors who have imposed unnecessary tax hikes on our town. I will work tirelessly to keep council tax fair, promote investment, and protect our green spaces."
Susan Barber echoed the sentiment after her win in Bengeo North:
"It is a privilege to be elected by the people of Bengeo North. The residents here deserve better than the policies we’ve seen from the current Green-led council. My focus will be on delivering tangible improvements for our area. I’m looking forward to working for the community and ensuring their voices are heard."
Nathan Parsad-Wyatt, Chairman of the Hertford & Stortford Conservative Association, remarked:
"We are rebuilding our team—door by door, leaflet by leaflet, conversation by conversation—as we begin the journey to restore trust with voters. These results are an encouraging start, but we understand the road ahead is long. Our team is fully committed to delivering real solutions and standing up for residents. We will work tirelessly, day by day, to renew faith in the Conservative team."
These wins come shortly after the Hertford & Stortford Conservative Association elected a new leadership team in August. The team is focused on two key priorities: growing the association and securing further electoral successes as part of a wider effort to challenge the Green and Liberal Democrat coalition at East Herts District Council and the recently elected Labour MP.
By-Election Results:
Hertford Castle Ward:
Conservative (Ryan Henson) – 551 votes (48%)
Green Party – 299 votes (26%)
Labour – 220 votes (19%)
Liberal Democrats – 79 votes (7%)
Hertford Bengeo North Ward:
Conservative (Susan Barber) – 720 votes (48%)
Green Party – 568 votes (38%)
Labour – 146 votes (10%)
Liberal Democrats – 62 votes (4%)
The local team are calling on residents to get involved in shaping the future of Hertford & Stortford. Whether it’s through joining campaigns, volunteering, or becoming a member, this is your chance to make a real difference in your community. Join here.
