Independents for Frome (IfF) will continue to have full control of the town council after success in this month’s by-election.
Lyndsey Mayhew was elected to Frome Town Council following a by-election in Market Ward, which saw her gain 55% of the vote.
The result means Frome retains its status as a fully independent council and a new ‘watershed moment’ where women now make up a majority of town councillors in Frome for the first time.
Lyndsey said, “I’ve lived in Somerset for my whole life and moved to Frome in 2019 because I fell in love with the town, particularly its strong sense of community. I’m excited to deepen my involvement in the town, serve our wonderful community and ensure that everyone in the town feels heard. Thank you so much to everyone who voted for me on 9th October and to my colleagues within Independents for Frome for their support. I’m looking forward to getting started!”
Lyndsey’s career began as a local news reporter and since, she has worked in a variety of communications, engagement and event roles, as well as volunteering for the charity Active and in Touch and co-founding pop-up pay-what-you-can restaurant Canteen.
She also worked as an Independent Visitor for young people in care in Somerset for 14 years. She recently launched ‘Hello Frome’ a new show and podcast on Frome FM, showcasing the ‘human spirit’ of Frome through interviews and personal stories with local people.
Chair and Leader of Frome Town Council Fiona Barrows said, “I’m so thrilled that Lyndsey was elected, not just because she was the Independents for Frome candidate but because I know she will be a great asset to our team of councillors.
“I’m particularly pleased, as this marks the first time in history Frome Town Council has more female councillors than male. This is a real watershed moment that very few councils reach.
“It is so important to our democracy that our local councils reflect the diversity of voices and experiences in our community and that the route to being a councillor is genuinely open to everyone.”
The results were: Claude Atkinson (Conservative) 42; Lyndsey Mayhew 360; Damon John Hooton (Liberal Democrat) 168; Neil Sheppard 15; and Tim Stevens (Reform) 76. The turnout was 22.64%.
The next meeting of Frome Town Council takes place on Wednesday 29th October at 7pm. Find out more and view the agenda at bit.ly/council-29-Oct-2025.
