THE Scottish Conservatives have won another seat on Stirling Council after they beat the SNP at this week's by-election.

The Tories now have eight members on the local authority, while the SNP now has seven, making them the largest group on the council. 

Labour, the ruling minority administration, has five members but are backed by Tory votes, with Tory councillor Douglas Dodds appointed provost as part of the deal. 

The Dunblane-Bridge of Allan by-election was called after SNP councillor Graham Houston passed away in December last year. 

Robin Kleinman, now Tory councillor, returned 1832 first preference votes, while SNP candidate Ahsan Khan returned 1202, and Scottish Labour's David Wilson returned 600. 

Scottish Lib Dems candidate Dick Moerman returned 399 first preference votes, Scottish Greens candidate Claire Pauline Andrews returned 389, and Scottish Family Party's Nickie Willis returned 50 votes.

Kleinman was elected at the sixth stage of the count, as local by-elections use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system. 

Stirling Council said the turnout for Dunblane and Bridge of Allan was 38.1%. 

Stirling News: Carol Beattie with Robin Kleinman outside Old ViewforthCarol Beattie with Robin Kleinman outside Old Viewforth (Image: N/A)

Returning officer Carol Beattie has thanked council staff and everyone involved in the delivery of the by-election.

Ms Beattie said: “I would like to say a huge thanks to all our staff and partners who helped deliver the Dunblane and Bridge of Allan by-election.

“Elections involve months of careful planning and preparation, with teams across the Council working together to ensure the process runs smoothly and delivers a successful outcome.

“Local government decisions impact on every aspect of people’s lives so it’s important citizens engage in the democratic process – thanks to everyone who participated in this election.

“Congratulations to Robin Kleinman on his success and I look forward to working with him over the coming years.”