ONE of Guy Opperman’s rivals at last year’s General Election has failed in his latest political bid.

Representing the Green Party, Nick Morphet was one of four candidates who contested the Hexham Constituency seat last December.

On Monday, he was one of three members of the public who contested a vacancy on Hexham Town Council.

But Mr Morphet, and former town councillor David Clegg, were both defeated by Liam Panesh, who was co-opted on to the council.

All three candidates attended Monday’s public meeting, which took place virtually, and were each given three minutes to stake their claim for the vacant seat.

The public were tuned out of the meeting for a short while as councillors made their decision in camera, before the ‘winner’ was announced.

During his three-minute presentation, Mr Panesh said he was married with two children, and moved to Hexham three years ago.

After starting up his own business, Mr Panesh said he was training to become a maths and numeracy specialist.

He added: “I am very keen to be involved with my local town, and I believe I have the skills to contribute to every day life. I believe a good town councillor should listen to the community, and garner support for people.”

Mr Panesh said he was keen to meet residents, and listen to their priorities.

He added: “Hexham is already going through positive changes and I would be delighted to be involved.”

Mr Morphet had said he would focus on biodiversity and sustainability, while supporting people and helping the town unleash its “tremendous potential”.

Mr Clegg prioritised the importance of the Hexham neighbourhood plan, as well as Hexham’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

A FORMER Green Party candidate who stood against Guy Opperman at last year’s General Election has defended a photo he posted on social media.

Nick Morphet was one of four candidates who contested the Hexham Constituency seat last December.

At the weekend, he posted an image of himself with a group of people sitting on the road in Hexham’s Market Place, during the temporary pedestrianisation which is currently being trialled on Saturdays only.