THE Conservatives have won a Borders by-election with more than half of the vote.

John Bathgate has been elected as the new Conservative councillor for Jedburgh and District.

Mr Bathgate won 58.5 per cent of the vote and increased the party's vote share by 8.2 per cent.

He said: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to represent Jedburgh and St Boswells ward and repay the faith that local people have placed in me.

"Thank you to everyone who voted for me and supported me during the campaign. I am very grateful.

"It is a huge honour to be elected and I am excited to get started."

Fellow Conservative politicians in the Borders extended their congratulations to Mr Bathgate.

John Lamont MP said: “Congratulations to John Bathgate on running a strong campaign focused on the issues that matter most to local people.

“I know he will be a fantastic representative and work hard for his constituents.

“I look forward to working with the newly elected councillor to deliver on the top priorities of Jedburgh and St Boswells residents.”

And Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton added: "Well done to John Bathgate for working so hard in this campaign and securing such a great win.

"I am sure he will be a strong voice for local residents and deliver action on the key issues that affect their daily lives."