Benfieldside candidates reveal campaigns ahead of Durham by-election
Voters in Benfieldside, County Durham, will elect a new county councillor to represent the ward following the resignation of a Reform UK member.
The Durham County Council poll was called after Andrew Kilburn resigned for failing to declare that he was employed by the local authority. He was elected in May with 1,007 votes alongside fellow Reform candidate Sandra Grindle as the party gained both seats in the Benfieldside ward – one from Labour and one from an independent.
The ballot will be held on July 3.
Who are the candidates?
Kevin Earley – Labour Party
“Kevin was just 127 votes behind the Reform candidate, whose resignation caused this expensive re-run.
“We hope our supporters come out again on July 3rd and vote for the chance of making the new Shotley Bridge Hospital the best community hospital in the North.
“We have a clear plan to produce another eight beds for rehabilitation patients as well as the 16 planned community beds, create apprenticeships as well as homes with extra care for our older folk, right next door to the new hospital. All built to reduce carbon, reduce bills and improve our environment.
“Reform doesn’t know a health project from a hole in the road. We need people who care and can work with others to deliver the best we can for our area.
Kevin added: “I’m standing in this election because I think I can make a difference to the place I live and for the people who live here.”
Stephen Harrison – Reform UK
“I grew up in County Durham, attended school in Leadgate and Lanchester, and have worked in Durham for most of my life. The wellbeing of my family, friends and community has always meant the utmost to me.
“It would be my privilege to serve the residents of Benfieldside with equal verve and determination. Never have I been afraid of standing up and being counted or shying away from asking the hard questions.
“I promise I will take that same drive and resolve to County Hall on your behalf. Together, Sandra and I will make a dedicated, approachable and professional team. We will work together to ensure Benfieldside always receives its fair share, and we will strive to deliver the service you deserve. I look forward to the future and to meeting and chatting with you all!”
David Lowes – Conservative Party
“David is a dedicated local resident with deep roots in the community. He is committed to addressing the issues that matter most to residents of Shotley Bridge, Blackhill, and Benfieldside—ensuring efficient local services, tackling anti-social behaviour, and protecting our cherished green spaces.
“With David Lowes, you have a candidate who values transparency and accountability, and who will work tirelessly to serve our community’s best interests.”
Stephen Robinson, Independent
Previously a Benfieldside county councillor representing the Derwentside Independents, Mr Robinson became an Independent ahead of the May 2025 local elections but came fourth out of ten candidates.
A joint campaign message with fellow Independent candidate Peter Oliver ahead of the May election read: “We ensure our area is well-maintained, have sufficient rubbish and dog-waste bins, are available at any time on the end of the phone and work tirelessly for our constituents, whatever their political persuasion. We have supported many, many local initiatives and can do so without being encumbered by a national party organisation, which on a local level proves inflexible and difficult to react.
“Peter and Stephen would be honoured to receive your vote on Thursday, and we promise to serve all the people in our division regardless of their background, sexuality, race or religion.”
Terry Rooney – Liberal Democrat
“Terry Rooney lives in the Benfieldside Division, was born here, is committed to getting the best for the area, and will always be available when residents need assistance.
“He has a strong track record of working for the community. He helped fellow Lib Dems secure the new market for Consett. Most recently, he launched a petition to stop cuts to the Urgent Care Unit at Shotley Bridge Hospital. Working with Lib Dem councillors for Consett North and South, he will push hard to get the new hospital built too.
“Terry wants to make sure Shotley Bridge, Bridgehill, Blackhill and Benfieldside are the cleanest in the county and get the investment they deserve. He will fight to cut anti-social behaviour, to get roads properly repaired and to tackle speeding issues across the area.”
Richard Simpson – Green Party
“The victory of Reform in the 1st May elections will be a disaster for County Durham. I was happy to put myself forward for the Green Party in this by-election to give the people of Shotley Bridge, Blackhill and Bridge Hill a true progressive alternative to the divisiveness and chaos of Reform, and to Labour’s attacks on working people, the disabled, pensioners, the vulnerable, and the environment.
“As a Green councillor, I will work tirelessly for and with the people of Benfieldside to ensure their quality of life and the services they receive from the council are the best they can possibly be.”
