Sandra Cottam-Shea elected to Ramsey Commissioners

Ramsey residents headed out to cast their vote in a by-election triggered by the death of a former commissioner

Ramsey Commissioners held its by-election yesterday and Sandra Cottam-Shea was elected to the vacant seat.

Four candidates were in the running, and she won with 162 votes with Joe Callister in a close second with 143 votes respectively.

Sara Kennedy-Hay won 110 and Pauline Johns-Garrett received 70 votes.

Ms Cottam-Shea describes Ramsey as colourful, quirky and different, with a strong community and family feel.

Among her top priorities is addressing empty properties in the town, ensuring both private and public sector housing is 'up to scratch.'

The now-Ramsey commissioner also wants to know if there’s enough support for the vulnerable.

As part of her election campaign, Ms Cottam-Shea said she wants to see more support for traders, and was keen to make the most of the town's beach.

Four hundred and ninety four votes were cast, including two postal votes, which meant a voter turnout of 18.6 percent.

Ms Cottam-Shea said she's looking forward to her first board meeting.

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper was at the by-election: