A FORMER Taunton Mayor who once welcomed Richard Hammond to Taunton is hoping to become a part of the Somerset Council.

Launching his campaign this month, Former Mayor of Taunton, Nick O’Donnell, was selected by the Liberal Democrats for the forthcoming by-election.

This comes after Cllr Dixie Darch decided to step down.

Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, said: “Nick’s hard work for his home neighbourhood in Rowbarton stands out, for example when he achieved new park equipment at Greenway Rec.

“His experience of being a Climate Action trustee will be ideal to ensure work the Lib Dem team on Somerset Council have started – like new zero carbon council houses, thousands more trees, new night buses and making them pollution free – can continue.”

Cllr Darch, also a Lib Dem, endorsed the nomination, saying: "I am delighted that Nick O'Donnell is standing in Rowbarton and Staplegrove.

“We have worked closely together, given his role on the town council, and he has shown himself to be a committed councillor, responsive to residents and an excellent champion when it comes to environmental action.

“I know Nick will give this role his all and I fully support him."

Nick also welcomed Richard Hammond when he came to Taunton last year.

The former Top Gear presenter opened Taunton's County Classics Motor Museum last year.

Richard Hammond (pictured on stage left) was welcomed to Taunton by Nick O'Donnell as he opened the County Classics Motor Museum in town. (Image: Harry Mockridge/Newsquest) The Liberal Democrats currently have a majority of four on Somerset Council, with the Conservatives forming the biggest opposition party. 

Nick said: "I'm absolutely thrilled and exhilarated to have been selected by the party to stand here on my home turf – I’ve lived in this area for over 20 years. 

“Having been privileged to represent Wellsprings and Rowbarton as a town councillor this past year, I look forward to carrying on working for local residents at the county level."