Following the sad passing of long-serving North Somerset councillor Terry Porter, a byelection will be held to elect his successor for the Hutton and Locking ward on Thursday 10 September. Mr Porter, a Conservative councillor first elected in 2009, was widely recognised as one of the council’s most active members and passed away peacefully at his home on Friday 26 June. His death has prompted widespread tributes across the council chamber.
Five political parties are fielding candidates for the upcoming byelection, with the deadline to register to vote set for Monday 24 August. Hutton and Locking is one of several wards in North Somerset represented by two councillors; the other current councillor is Independent Mike Solomon.
Michael Pryke, leader of the council’s opposition Conservative group and a councillor for Clevedon Walton, expressed deep sadness at Mr Porter’s death. He said: “I will personally miss his advice and thoughtful contributions shared with his usual good humour and charm.”
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Reflecting on Mr Porter’s commitment, Mr Pryke added: “Terry dedicated his life to public service and to the communities he loved. Having first served as a councillor on Hutton Parish Council, he was elected to North Somerset Council in 2009 to represent the residents of Hutton and Locking, a role he carried out with unwavering commitment for more than 17 years.”
He continued: “Throughout his time on North Somerset Council, Terry served in a number of important positions, including chair of Council. He was widely respected across the political spectrum as a thoughtful, diligent and principled councillor.”
Independent Yatton councillor Steve Bridger also paid tribute, stating on Facebook: “It’s all too easy to be cynical about politics and those who serve in it, but Terry was genuinely the epitome of a conscientious, passionate, and genuinely kind public servant, and the council is poorer for his passing.”
Council leader Mike Bell (Liberal Democrat, Weston-super-Mare Central) described Mr Porter as a “strong community champion,” while deputy council leader Catherine Gibbons (Labour, Weston-super-Mare Milton) praised him as “kind, thoughtful and approachable.”
Mr Porter held the position of vice-chair of the council’s planning committee and served on two scrutiny panels. At the April full council meeting, he passionately advocated for transforming the Tropicana into a major music arena, describing it as “the last chance for the Tropicana.” Beyond his council duties, he was actively involved in the Hutton Horticultural Society and played a significant role in organising the annual Hutton Show.
The byelection will elect a new councillor to continue representing the Hutton and Locking community, with five political parties putting forward candidates to fill the vacancy left by Mr Porter’s passing.