**Labour Secures Victory in Baglan By-Election, Reform Party Places Third**
In a significant development for Welsh local politics, the Labour Party emerged victorious in a closely fought council by-election in the Baglan ward, part of Neath Port Talbot Borough. The contest, held on 17 July 2025, saw Labour’s Josh Tuck claim the vacant seat, following a competitive campaign that involved several major parties and independent candidates.
The by-election was called earlier this year after the untimely death of Peter Richards, a beloved and long-serving Baglan councillor. Richards had represented the community since 2004, earning widespread respect for his commitment and service across more than two decades. His passing marked the end of an era for Baglan and prompted a keenly watched electoral contest for his successor.
Tuck, representing Labour, garnered a decisive 708 votes, prevailing over Wendy Blethyn, an independent candidate who finished in second place with 532 votes. Despite recent by-election successes in other parts of Wales, the Reform UK party, represented in Baglan by John Bamsey, finished in third position with 447 votes. This result drew attention as Reform had been gaining traction in several Welsh council contests in the run-up to this election.
After the result was announced, Josh Tuck expressed his gratitude to the local electorate for their support. “I’m absolutely delighted and deeply appreciative of the trust placed in me by the people of Baglan,” he remarked. Tuck also paid tribute to Peter Richards, highlighting his “incredible work ethic and enduring friendship with the community,” and acknowledged the legacy he inherits.
Looking ahead, Tuck outlined his immediate priorities for the ward, emphasising the importance of improving local infrastructure. “Addressing casework, repairing roads and pavements, and tackling overgrown hedges and trees are urgent issues,” he said. In addition, he identified lay-by parking charges at Aberavon beach as a point of contention for residents, pledging to tackle the matter in council.
Baglan itself is a village and electoral ward strategically situated between Port Talbot and Briton Ferry. The turnout at the by-election stood at 33.99%, reflecting moderate interest from local voters, which is often typical in council by-elections.
Besides the three frontrunners, the by-election featured candidates from across the political spectrum. Plaid Cymru’s Colin Deere secured 149 votes, while Nigel Bartolotti Hill of the Green Party attracted 18. The Welsh Conservative Party’s Lee Stabbins managed 19 votes, with Tomos Gruffydd Roberts-Young of the Welsh Liberal Democrats receiving 13 votes. The full results demonstrate both the competitive nature of local politics and the diversity of political choices available to Baglan residents.
The outcome represents a boost for Labour at a local level, especially as the party fends off challenges from both newly emerging parties and established rivals. The result also curtails the recent momentum Reform UK had been experiencing in other Welsh areas—an indicator that voter allegiance remains fluid and localised in its nature.
This by-election win allows Labour to reinforce its presence within Neath Port Talbot council, giving Josh Tuck the platform to address critical local issues. He enters office at a moment shaped by both the fond memory of his predecessor and evolving community expectations.
For many observers, the Baglan result highlights the importance of local personalities and grassroots campaigning, with Tuck’s tribute to Peter Richards underlining the enduring impact a committed councillor can have. As Tuck assumes his new responsibilities, residents and political watchers alike will be keen to see how he navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead for the Baglan ward.