The SNP has won a council seat in Aberdeenshire, increasing their share of the vote to take a seat that had previously been held by the Tories.
The SNP won 46% of the vote in Troup with 1159 first preference votes, more than double the number won by the second placed Tories, who received 574 votes.
The SNP's share of the vote was up six points on the 40% share of the vote won in the ward during the 2012 council elections.
New councillor Ross Cassie said: "It is a great privilege to be elected as the SNP councillor for Troup ward.
"This by-election took place under very sad circumstances after the passing of John Duncan, and I pay tribute to the work he has done for the area.
"There are a number of very significant challenges facing the communities here - not least the regeneration of our towns - but residents can rest assured that I will give nothing less than my absolute best in pursuit of a better future for this area."
SNP MP for Banff and Buchan Dr Eilidh Whiteford added: "This was a Conservative-held seat but the people of Troup have placed their faith in the SNP to protect key policies like the Council Tax freeze. I wish Ross all the best in his new role and I am confident that he will deliver for the people who placed their trust in him."
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