Danny Masterton of Coalfields Solidarity secured over 7% of the vote in the by-election for the Ballochmyle Ward of East Ayrshire Council.  Despite a 'squeeze' on the other parties in what was perceived to be a close contest between Labour and the SNP, the vote for Solidarity was cause for optimism in future elections in this area.  Local organiser Jim Monaghan said:

"We are on course for a Solidarity councillor in 2011.  Danny fought a great campaign and, unlike other parties, we wont be going away until the next election.  We will still be fighting in these communties for a fairer deal for low paid workers and pensioners, when the major parties election teams return to their bases."