BINGLEY finally has a new town council dominated by independent voices, but also with a well-balanced political mixture.

Voters backed the free-speaking idea promoted by the Bingley Community Council Group and created a voice for the town boasting eight Independent, four Conservative and four Labour Councillors.

"We're very thankful for this result - it's an historic day for Bingley and local democracy," said Cllr Ros Dawson (Ind), newly-elected for the Priestthorpe ward and who championed the idea from the start.

"If it hadn't been for Ros, none of this would have happened - she inspired a lot of people and it's a very well deserved outcome," said Terry Brown (Ind), Oakwood.

Geoff Winnard, (Con, Gilstead) added: "There was a good range of people to choose from and Bingley has spoken."

The council will serve over 18,000 people in Crossflatts, Bingley, Cottingley, Eldwick, Gilstead and Micklethwaite.

Michelle Chapman, founder of Bingley Flood Support Group was elected to represent Crow Nest ward.

"It's brilliant for Bingley and I can't wait to get stuck in!" she said.

"It's a great mix on the council and we're all looking forward to meeting people who need our help.

"I was encouraged to stand by people I've met since the Boxing Day floods and I hope to build on those relationships," she said.

Bingley's MP Philip Davies said "There are some very high calibre people and I'm sure they will bring a "can-do" attitude to the council.

Other elected councillors are: Andrew Quarrie, (Con, Bingley Central & Myrtle Park), Joe Wheatley, (Lab, Bingley Central & Myrtle Park), Howard Clough, (Ind, Cottingley), John Goode, (Ind, Cottingley), Robert Beckwith, (Lab, Cottingley), Thomas Cheney, (Con, Crossflatts & Micklethwaite), Marcus Dearden, (Lab, Crossflatts & Micklethwaite), Mike Wheatley, (Lab, Crow Nest), Chris O'Neill, (Ind, Eldwick), Mark Truelove, (Ind, Eldwick), Rachel Varley, (Con, Gilstead), Edwina Simpson, (Ind, Priestthorpe).