HALESOWEN student Amara Betts-Patel is the party’s latest local councillor after claiming victory in the Scotforth Rural and University ward by-election in Lancaster.

Amara, a first year university student in the city, was elected on May 17 after claiming 518 votes, while her Labour colleague won 423 votes and was also elected.

The pair took the two seats available ahead of the Green Party candidates on 264 and 235 votes, while the Conservative candidates finished third after polling 185 and 184.

Amara, who has been an active presence in the Halesowen Labour Party for over a year, said she was delighted with the result, adding: “I could not be happier. I promise to do everything I can.”

Following Amara’s election, her mother Helen said: “I am immensely proud of Amara’s achievement.

“She understands what is expected of a councillor – having had first-hand experience when working with Ian Cooper in Halesowen.

“With Ian’s support Amara found the confidence to put herself forward. I know she will work hard for her constituency to improve the lives of the people in her ward.”

The talented youngster said she wanted to make a difference after being inspired by the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn.

Before she headed off to university in September, Amara was featured in the News for a litter pick she organised near her home in Banners Lane.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis Parliamentary candidate Ian Cooper added: “We are all so proud of Amara and her victory. The future of the Labour Party is in safe hands.

“Amara has offered a lot to our local group and her constituents in Lancaster are getting a dedicated and immensely talented councillor.”