The Swindon Conservatives have gained another councillor, just days after losing 10 seats.

Independent councillor for Wroughton & Wichelstowe Dave Martyn, who was elected twice as a Conservative before resigning from the group earlier this year, has re-joined, bringing the party's total number of seats to 23.

Coun Martyn said: “I left the Conservative Group for personal reasons and chose to sit as an independent with no political ties. However, I have always made it clear that my politics remain conservative and I have continued to support our excellent MP Sir Robert Buckland.

“I am looking forward once again to having the camaraderie of the Conservative Group and continuing the good relationship I have with my fellow ward members.

"My aims remain the same as they have been since I was elected and I will strive to do my utmost to serve the people of Wroughton where I live, working closely with Coun Brian Ford and helping to hold Labour and their Lib Dem supporter to account.”

The new group leader Gary Sumner added: “I am delighted that Coun Martyn has re-joined the group. He is an excellent councillor who constantly looks out for and speaks up for his residents in Wroughton.

“Coun Martyn holds himself to high ethical standards and will always do what he feels is right and not populist. At heart he is a conservative and I’m glad he’s back working with us and strengthening the group.”