By-election due at a Norfolk council as "loo lady" announces relocation
Voters in Suffield Park ward in Cromer will go to the polls on July 9
Last updated 5th Jun 2026
A by-election is set to be held at a Norfolk council after a member known as the “loo lady” announced she was relocating to Poland for family reasons.
Voters in Suffield Park ward in Cromer will go to the polls on July 9 to elect a new representative after Emma Tooke, a Lib Dem, decided to step down.
Mrs Tooke has sat on North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) since 2019, when she was elected as Emma Spagnola, and once served as mayor of Cromer.
She earned her nickname as the “Norfolk loo lady” during her tenure for a campaign she led to provide more ‘Changing Places’ disabled toilets across Norfolk.
A Changing Places toilet is a specialised, fully accessible facility for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities or severe physical disabilities
When Mrs Tooke, who has two autistic sons, launched the initiative, there were just four in the county. The number had risen to 24 by 2023.
Her campaign featured a host of stunts, including one move where she sat on a toilet on the back of a classic Morris Minor pickup truck at the Cromer Carnival.
Her resignation and move to Poland reduces the Lib Dems, who hold a majority on the council, from 26 to 25 seats.
The Conservatives have 11 members, with three Independents completing the makeup.
Tim Adams, the Lib Dem, leader of the council, praised the work she had done for the council.
“We are very grateful to her,” he said.
“Emma made a big difference to us, bringing that knowledge and inclusivity and meeting the needs of disabled people.
“Her Changing Places scheme in particular was a big achievement for her. She always offered a personable service to residents and we wish her all the best.”
The Lib Dems have already selected their candidate for next month’s vote.
Tyler Wragg, who stood in last month’s county council elections in the Stalham division, will hope to retain the seat for the Lib Dems.
Mr Wragg finished third in Stalham behind Conservative Matthew Taylor – who was recently elected as NNDC chairman – and Kevin Corrigan, a Reform UK candidate.
Nominations are open until June 12 for other parties to submit candidates.