BOTH political parties contesting a parish council by-election came out with something to celebrate.

Labour and the Liberal Democrats each took one of the two seats in Thursday's election for the West Ward of Brandon and Byshottles Parish Council, in Durham City.

The vacancies arose following the death of sitting Labour councillor Arthur Veide, and the resignation of party colleague George Burlison.

Labour held on to one of the two seats, after David Cummings topped the poll with 413 votes.

But the Liberal Democrats gained one seat by the tiniest of margins as John Wilkinson beat Labour's Derek Graham - by just six votes.

Despite a last minute change of venue for one of the three polling stations, forced by the fire which severely damaged Waterhouses Community Centre, turnout was just under 27 per cent.

Full result:

* Annette Crooks (Lib Dem) 273

* David Cummings (Lab) 413 - elected

* Derek Graham (Lab) 351

* John Wilkinson (Lib Dem) 357 - elected.