A VICTORIOUS Liberal Democrat candidate celebrated a win in the Crystal Palace by-election by honouring his predecessor's achievements.

Newly elected Councillor Tom Papworth won the by-election on September 6 to replace Councillor Chris Gaster who died on July 11 after 25 years of serving the ward.

In his speech, Cllr Papworth paid tribute to his predecessor: "Cllr Chris Gaster showed us what it means to be a good ward councillor.

"Through his dedication, his commitment and his hard work he built up a loyal body of support for the Liberal Democrats.

"His devotion to the area was beyond measure."

Cllr Papworth won 1051 votes in the by-election which saw just 25 per cent of the ward electorate turn out to vote.

Labour Party candidate Kevin Brooks won 537 votes in second place.

Jason Hadden of the Conservative Party won 398 votes and Green Party candidate Karen Moran received 129 votes.