THE Liberal Democrats on the Forest Council have been reduced to a single member following a resignation and a defection

Dymock councillor Gillian Kilmurray has crossed the floor to the Tories while Newent and Taunton member Julie Hudson has stepped down from the council.

It means that Newent and Taynton councillor Gill Moseley is the only Lib Dem on the authority.

Two Liberal Democrats and a Labour councillor have resigned in Gloucestershire while a Lib Dem has defected to the Conservatives.

Dymock councillor Gillian Kilmurray has joined the Conservative group at Forest of Dean District Council while Newent and Taynton councillor Julie Hudson has resigned.

And at Cotswold District Council Lib Dem Gary Selwyn (Watermoor) has also stood down.

Cllr Kilmurray, who was born and raised in Lydney but has lived in Dymock since 2006, said she decided to join the Tories after reflecting deeply on the direction of central government.

“I found myself questioning some of the positions and policy directions being set, which led me to reassess where I could best represent your interests,” she said.

“For me, standing originally for the Liberal Democrats marked a significant shift from the party I had supported prior.

“However, after careful consideration, and in light of evolving national policies, I have made the decision—as of March 2025—to represent you via the Conservative Party.

“I want to emphasise that local government operates very differently from national politics. Decisions here are about our community, practical services, and the day-to-day well-being of residents, rather than broader national agendas.

“My commitment to working hard for the people of this district remains unchanged, regardless of party label.

“I also want to highlight my continued support for local farmers and the rural economy.

“Farming is at the heart of our community and vital to both our local heritage and future sustainability. I remain committed to ensuring that our farmers’ voices are heard—particularly during this time of national policy changes—and that they receive the support they need to thrive, adapt, and grow.”

Tory group leader Clayton Williams (Hartpury and Redmarley) said his group “welcomed Cllr Kilmurray with open arms”.

“I’ve been keeping my eye on her for some while now realising the way she speaks in the chambers, she is a pure Conservative,” he said.

“It is fantastic to have her on board and she will be brilliant for Dymock ward.”

A by-election for the Newent & Taynton seat will be held on May 1 at the same time as the poll for Gloucestershire County Council.

There will be a second by-election on the same day for the Cinderford East ward.

Matt Bishop, who is now MP for the Forest of Dean was previously one of two Labour councillors serving the ward.

He had previously said he would time his resignation so a by-election could be held at the same time as the County Council elections.

Forest of Dean Lib Dems were approached for a comment.