ELECTION 2021: 'It's good to be back', says ex-West Norfolk Council leader after county victory

One of West Norfolk's biggest political figures was thrilled to return to the fray today as he became a county councillor.

Nick Daubney received nearly 65 per cent of the vote in the Freebridge Lynn division, two years after stepping back from frontline politics at the last borough election.

He said: "It feels good. I'm very, very pleased.

"I've had this year or two out of local politics. I've followed everything very closely of course and this will be different. I can't wait to get stuck in."

Mr Daubney's new seat is the same one that was held by the former Norfolk County Council leader Derrick Murphy when the two men - and the authorities they led - were on opposite sides of the Lynn incinerator saga a decade ago.

But he maintains he is not aiming to take a top position at County Hall.

He said: "I just want to do my best for West Norfolk. Who knows where things will take you?

"I want to do my best for the Woottons, for Grimston, Castle Rising, Pott Row, Roydon.

"I live here. I love living here. I just want to do a decent job as a county councillor.

"I want it to be constructive and there's no reason it can't be. I've never been afraid of standing up for what I believe is right and I'll continue to do that."

The first winner of the day was another Conservative, as Thomas Smith was re-elected in Gaywood South.

He described it as "a very humbling honour" to be given a second term in the division.

He added: "I've done my utmost for the whole patch and I'm very conscious I've put the effort in across the seat."