Green Surge continues in North & West Oxfordshire

In the May elections, the Green Party exceeded expectations across the country.  The Green Party came second in overall vote share and claimed victory in many seats. Similar success was seen in North and West Oxfordshire.

In Cherwell alone, we increased our vote count to 232% of the 2024 total, beating the Lib Dems – 4637 votes versus their 4034.

Fiona Mawson trounced her opposition in Kidlington East, garnering 35% of the vote. Her nearest opponent only receiving 25%. This was testament to her performance as a councillor since being elected in 2022, and the goodwill she has developed with her electorate.

Another strong showing came from Claire Brenner in Bicester West. Despite a much shorter campaign, Claire was able to increase the Green vote share of the ward to nearly 800% of the previous election. Her activity in the community, strong messaging on SEND, and other local issues, has clearly hit home. We can be confident that with the benefit of a full campaign for the Unitary council next year, she will have a good chance of obtaining a seat.

Brize Norton and Shilton was a very hotly contested seat, with all major parties actively campaigning against the incumbent Green Rosie Pearson. Questionable tactics were unsurprisingly used, to no avail. This particular ward is vast, encompassing many isolated villages over a wide area. Nonetheless, the tireless sitting councillor connected with her constituents in all corners. The streets of Brize Norton were awash with green posters, and she claimed a deserved victory.

The neighbouring town of Carterton also has the humble beginnings of a Green presence. Despite a heavily right-wing ward, prospective Green candidate Hemashu Kotecha has started making gains which will surely continue.

These are notable candidates who have performed well through great effort – but a broader trend is also clear. The Green Party surge continues!

The community is growing.

Activity is growing.

And with that…

Success will follow.