MORE than 30 Liberal Democrats voiced support for social housing when a newly re-formed Wellington and West Deane branch was launched in the town.

Past chairman Michael Rose said: “Citizens of Wellington have been betrayed by this Conservative council [Taunton Deane] following the decision on the Weavers Arms housing development site in Rockwell Green, to replace ten existing dwellings with 26 new homes, only three of which are to be let at social rents.”

Town councillor Peter Critchard, elected secretary of the new branch, said: “So-called affordable housing being put up on the rest of this site is unaffordable for most people. What we need is proper council houses at social rents.”

Paul Baker, who was born in Wellington and brought up in Oaken Ground, and was elected to the new committee, added: “If anything will ensure I am active in winning from the Conservatives here, it is the thought that these Rockwell Green homes have been demolished without proper council housing being put back in their place.”

Marie Troake was elected chairman of the branch and new member Dominic Varley from Ford Street treasurer.

The mix of new and old members were reminded of Liberal and Liberal Democrat election successes including the elections of MPs Jacqui Ballard and Jeremy Browne, and of the former Wellington Liberal Club in Fore Street.

Other places on the new committee were taken by Cllr Mark Lithgow (vice-chairman), Sue Johnson, Paul Partington, James Russell of Bishops Lydeard Parish Council and John Hassall of Cotford St Luke Parish Council.

The enthusiastic audience included Adrian Dyke, chairman of Oake Parish Council, Gill Lumby of Milverton Parish Council and Sue Levinge of Chipstable Parish Council.

Gideon Amos OBE, who stood for Taunton Deane in the General Election and who is campaigning for more social housing in the constituency, gave a speech.

Mulled wine and mince pies were enjoyed by everyone and raffle prizes included a single malt bottle of whisky.

The new branch will meet at least quarterly and everyone who supports the branch’s objectives is welcome to join. Contact [email protected] for more details.