Sylvia Russell (Cons) 1,736

Richard Younger-Ross (Lib Dem) 1,714

Lillian Chasteau (Lab) 437

Jackie Hooper (UKIP) 437

Benjamin Stevens (Green) 193

SHOCK result of the Teignbridge wards came in Teignmouth where sitting Lib Dem and former MP Richard Younger-Ross lost his seat to the Tories. Just 22 votes separated him from the victor, town and district councillor, and former county member, Sylvia Russell. After the results were announced, Mrs Russell, whose local political career dates back more than 20 years, said: ‘I am absolutely ecstatic. ‘It was so close. ‘But this has been helped by the national position which has fed down to these local elections. ‘I think this is a good omen for the general election.’ Humble in defeat, Mr Younger-Ross said he had ‘lost things in the past’ and felt ‘fine’. He said: ‘I congratulate Sylvia on her win. ‘She always worked hard and I am sure she will continue to do just that.’ When asked if he would be standing in next month’s general election, he simply said: ‘I am not the candidate.’ Later on social media, he wrote: ‘Liberated.’ Mrs Russell said she intends to work to help health and support the future of community hospitals. She said her experience meant she had a lot to offer. She is also hoping to get a lift installed at Teignmouth railway station to improve disabled access and will be asking for a review of the town’s parking arrangements.