Penryn has two new councillors after the town's residents went to the polls last night.

Cornwall Council announced yesterday evening that the new town councillor for Penryn East Ward will be Rich Mitchell, with 224 votes to Margaret Harrison's 179.

Chaz Wenmoth won the Penryn West Ward election, with 428 votes, more than double the 174 supporters gathered by Labour's Jim Lloyd-Davies.

Voter turnout in the east ward was 20 per cent, with one ballot rejected and 141 postal votes included in the count, while in the west ward was 16 per cent, with four ballots rejected and 247 postal votes included.

Town mayor Gill Grant said: "We are extremely pleased with the turn out of the Penryn by-election.

"Congratulations to Chaz Wenmoth of the West Ward and Rich Mitchell of the East Ward our new Penryn Town Councillors and thank you to all our candidates for standing and canvassing all over the town. 

"There was a tremendous buzz in Penryn during the run up and we hope this enthusiasm will continue for future elections. We are now looking forward to the future and continuing the work of the council with new ideas and vigour.”