The Conservatives on the Vale of White Horse District Council are preparing to take control of the District in next May's local elections. Last night the Lib Dems held on to their seat in Kennington & South Hinksey, but only just! Conservative Group Leader, Melinda Tilley said, "It shows the Lib Dems are losing touch with local people."Kennington & South Hinksey is regarded by many as a Lib Dem strong hold, and is home to the Lib Dem Leader, yet last night the Conservatives increased their number of votes by more than 20%! Conservative candidate in the by-election, Gareth Jennings, commented, "They are hanging on by their finger tips here in Kennington & South Hinksey. Despite an increased turn out the Lib Dems have gained only a single vote since 2003."If this result was repeated across the District the Conservatives would be set to take control in 2007. Conservative Councillor, Matthew Barber said, "It is clear that people want a change, a return to common sense in the Vale."