FORMER West Wiltshire District Council chief executive Roy While was elated after the Tory party snatched both seats in Melksham Without ward.
Cllr While, who was the council's top officer from 1994 to 1997, was just two votes behind fellow party member Richard Wiltshire.
A former council officer in the East Midlands town of Corby, when the steel industry collapse led to spiralling unemployment rates, Cllr While said he is well-equipped to deal with problems. He said: "The reality strikes in that people will be ringing with their problems but I'm delighted with the situation."
Labour councillor Davina Griffin lost her seat as the Liberal Democrats made a clean sweep in Melksham North. In Melksham Spa, Conservative Brian Mudge retained a seat on the council, while Labour's William Cox took the seat left vacant by Sarah Cardy who did not seek re-election.
The Liberal Democrats retained Melksham Woodrow with Malcolm Rosier replacing Nick Westbrook who did not stand. Cllr Terry Chivers retained his seat for Atworth, Shaw and Whitley.
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