Hero Lieutenant Colonel Paul Jobbins is taking on a new role after winning a seat on Sodbury Town Council.

The new Liberal Democrat councillor was awarded the George Medal, second only to the Victoria Cross, for gallantry when rescuing thousands of civilians in the former Belgian Congo in 2004.

Colonel Jobbins, a father of three who lives with his wife in Chipping Sodbury, was awarded the George Medal while serving as the lead military observer for a United Nations peacekeeping force.

Serious fighting between government and rebel led forces had left hundreds dead, women raped and thousands of civilians in danger.

His citation reads: "Col Jobbins (unarmed) drove through crossfire to meet with a dissident general, persuaded him to halt his advance, and personally rescued many terrified citizens, often under fire.

"He personally ensured the safety of thousands of civilians and is cited for his commitment and courage, and his gallant leadership under fire."

Now retired from the Royal Marines Reserve and as a fingerprint expert with Avon and Somerset Police he is assistant manger for Chipping Sodbury Town Hall. During his time with the Royal Marines, he served in Northern Ireland, the Falklands War and two tours of duty in Bosnia. He also received the Military Medal and an OBE.

He now enjoys supporting environmental issues and keeps 200 hens and a small herd of pigs as part of a self-sufficiency drive.

He said after winning his seat on Sodbury Town Council: "I am very pleased by the substantial vote of confidence. I hope to live up to voters' expectations and I will work for the town and all of its people."

Colonel Jobbins got 342 votes, Deborah Newman for the Conservatives, 274 and Desley Radmall, for the Green Party, 30 votes.

Yesterday's Stoke Gifford Parish Council by-election resulted in a resounding victory by Conservative candidate Jackie Lewis, who took 62 per cent of a vote.

She got 426 votes, Anthony Davis 196 for the Labour and Gary Prosser, 63 for the Liberal Democrats