​TONY Prior made a sensational comeback to local government last night after winning a by-election.

The shamed ex-mayor was booted out of Chard Town Council in 2006 and banned for nine months after an employment tribunal found him guilty of sexual harassment against then town clerk Sally Bing.

He won the Crimchard ward by-election for Chard Town Council on an independent ticket with 244 votes - just 59 more than Liberal Democrat candidate David O’Brien.

Conservative Nanette Wale came third with 133 votes.

Mr Prior, 71, has nearly 30 years’ experience of being a councillor, both at town and district level.

He is involved in a number of community organisations including the Chard Museum, League of Friends of Chard Hospital and trust of the town’s almshouse.

A total of 562 votes were cast, representing just 28 per cent of the electorate.

For full election coverage, log on to www.thisissomerset.co.uk and pick up your copy of next week’s Western Gazette.