VALE representative – and now MP – Sarah Dyke has resigned from her role with Somerset Council.

The Liberal Democrat, who was councillor for the Blackmoor Vale ward, stood down on October 11 to “focus on her responsibilities as MP for Glastonbury and Somerton”.

Ms Dyke was first elected – as MP for Somerton & Frome – in a 2023 by-election, before winning the new Glastonbury & Somerton constituency at the July 2024 general election.

She continued in her role as the Somerset councillor for the Blackmoor Vale ward thoughout, but has decided “it is only right” she step down to dedicate her time to parliamentary duties.

“It has been an honour and privilege to serve as the district councillor for Milborne Port from 2015 to 2023, and as a Somerset Councillor for Blackmoor Vale since 2022,” she said.

“During that time, I’ve been incredibly proud to serve residents across the Blackmoor Vale, and I am extremely grateful for their support which took me from a single vote majority to one of over 6,500 votes at the last election.

“My additional responsibilities in Westminster now mean it is only right that I step down to dedicate my time to representing communities throughout Glastonbury and Somerton in Parliament and carry on my work as their MP.

“I am proud of what I have been able to achieve alongside my fantastic ward colleague Nicola Clark, with whom it’s been a privilege to work with over the past few years.

READ MORE: Click here for more political news and views from your New Blackmore Vale
READ MORE: Lib Dem Sarah Dyke sweeps to victory in Somerton & Frome by-election
READ MORE: ‘I hear you and I will fight for you’: New MP Sarah Dyke’s message to Somerton & Frome voters

“Nicola is a dedicated and talented councillor, and I look forward to working with her to serve residents in the Blackmoor Vale.

“I will also continue to work closely with local councillors in Glastonbury and Somerton for the benefit of people here, whether it’s protecting our green spaces and rivers, fighting for better NHS provision in rural areas or to ensure fair funding for our schools.”

Sarah Dyke after winning the Somerton & Frome by-election in July 2023. Picture: Paul Jones/Somerset Leveller

Somerset Council leader Bill Revans paid tribute to Ms Dyke’s work on the authority.

“I want to thank Sarah for her service as a Somerset councillor, and before that on the county and district councils,” he said.

“Her passion for the area and the environmental and rural issues that are close to her heart shine through in her public service.”