Another Conservative defects to the LibDems

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 7th Oct 2006

Tim Carroll, Leader of South Somerset District Council welcomed Cllr.Kim Turner as the newest member of the LibDem Group on South Somerset District Council. Kim Turner announced her decision to resign from the Conservative Group on the District Council, having already allowed her Conservative Party membership to lapse a few months ago.

Kim was elected in 2003 to represent Ilminster on South Somerset District Council.

Kim commented:

"Over the last year I have become increasingly disillusioned with the Conservatives, and felt that I no longer wished to remain a member of the Conservative Party. I stood for election in 2003 to serve Ilminster, not to serve the Conservative Party.

" I have, however, very much enjoyed representing Ilminster on South Somerset DC, and wish to continue doing so.

" I have decided to join the Liberal Democrat Group on South Somerset DC rather than simply becoming an independent. I have taken this decision because, having worked alongside them for three years, I feel that I share the values of the Liberal Democrats. I also feel that I can achieve more for local people by working as part of a team rather than by myself.

" I have always put the interests of Ilminster first, and I intend to continue to work hard for the people of this town. There is a lot I want to achieve for Ilminster, and I intend putting my name forward again in the May elections next year. I am very grateful to local residents for all the support and encouragement which I have received."

Tim Carroll, Leader of South Somerset District Council, said:

"I am delighted that Kim has decided to join the Liberal Democrat Group. Kim is hard working, dedicated to representing local interests, and respected both as a local councillor and in the wider council group. We have admired the work that Kim has done for Ilminster since 2003, and my colleagues and I will enjoy having her as a member of the team. Kim will continue to champion the interests of Ilminster, and I look forward to working with her in the future."