Cheshire East's newest councillor has set out his aims after being elected.

John Knight came out on top in Thursday's (November 20) Macclesfield Central by-election, polling 750 votes.

Now, the Green Party representative has laid out his plan to bring change to the ward.

He said: "Whether you voted for me or for one of the other candidates, I will work with you, and together we can and will improve the lives of ordinary people in Macclesfield Central. 

"I can't do this alone; will you join me in building a community where we care for vulnerable people, look after the planet and improve the lives of every resident?

"As a first step, I would like to meet more of you. I will be holding my first Residents' Meeting very soon, to hear your concerns – individually and as a group of local people who can make change happen. Let's get to work!"

Councillor Knight continued, paying thanks to those who voted for him.

"I want to thank voters for putting their trust in me. Becoming your councillor will not change me, I will continue to work hard for the people of Macclesfield," he said.

"All year, and during the campaign, you have raised issues with me – about dog fouling, anti-social behaviour, the decline of the town centre, road safety .. to name but a few – and I will be working with you and our council to get action.

"I would like to thank the other candidates for standing, running a largely positive campaign and wanting to help our residents. I hope that they will continue to want to work to improve the lives of the people of Macclesfield Central.

"My door will always be open to anyone wanting to help build a better, more harmonious and inclusive future for everyone."

John Knight with Green Party leader (Credit: Green Party)

Macclesfield MP Tim Roca took to social media on Friday afternoon (November 21) to welcome the borough's newest councillor.

He said: "Thank you to everyone who took part in the Macclesfield Central Council by-election yesterday.

"Congratulations to the newly elected Green Party councillor.

"I look forward to working constructively with them for the benefit of all our residents, regardless of party politics.

"These results clearly show that progressive parties command strong support in Macclesfield, with over 70% of votes going to progressive candidates in this by-election.

"Congratulations to the winners, commiserations to those who weren't successful this time and thank you to everyone who engaged in the democratic process. My priority remains the same: doing the best for our community, together."

Mr Roca also praised his Labour colleague James Barber-Chadwick, who finished second in the polls.

"I want to pay tribute to Labour's candidate, James Barber-Chadwick for Macclesfield Central, who faced some pretty unpleasant behaviour during the campaign," Mr Roca said.

"James led by example - remaining respectful and principled throughout. We need a return to more decent politics and James showed exactly how that should be done."