Some things Nigel won't tell you as he heralds this 'great victory' The sitting councillor, who was also England's longest serving councillor died. Normally, when a death happens within six months of an election, the election takes place with the others. Reform used an old law to force a by-election at a cost of £20,000 to the taxpayer. This took place before David had even been buried. The turnout was 17% - reflecting the apathy and disgust felt by residents. On May 7th, the people of Barton and Winton will once again be asked to vote, just like everywhere else. This was a stunt that cost Salford council, and therefore the the taxpayer tens of thousands of pounds. Michael Felse, the councillor who 'won' last night got 676 votes compared to Labour's 643. Reform are to be congratulated though - they seem to finally be becoming LGBTQIA+ friendly Mr Felse was parade queen at Manchester Pride in 2011.