ROCKY MOUNT -- The newcomer to Rocky Mount's town council finished first Tuesday.

Robert "Bob" Strickler -- the only one of the seven candidates on the ballot never to serve on or run for council before -- garnered the most votes.

Gregg Walker and incumbent Posey Dillon were elected to fill the two other seats.

"I have got a lot to learn," Strickler said.

New to elected office, the former Franklin County sheriff's captain is no stranger to politics. He worked and campaigned for longtime Franklin County Sheriff W.Q. "Quint" Overton for more than 25 years. Strickler retired last year when Overton did.

In this race, Overton campaigned for Strickler.

"I had a lot of support," Strickler said. "I had a lot of people lend themselves to me trying."

Walker, co-owner of a business that owns residential rental property, lost a bid for the council two years ago but he did not let that deter him from this year's election.

"By coming in close, that inspired me to run again," he said of the 2006 race.

Walker described himself as supporting "conservative-style government." He said he plans to ensure the town's money is spent wisely.

He, too, said he will have to learn the ropes.

"There is a lot I can learn from some [members] already on council and one returning," Walker said.

Dillon, who works for Appalachian Power Co. and who has more than 20 years of experience on the council, said it felt good to be re-elected.

"The people show that they support good, balanced representation and they are truly concerned with the direction the town is going," he said.

Dillon also serves as the town's fire chief and fire marshal. Both are unpaid volunteer positions.

Incumbents Steve Agee and Sadie Tuning were defeated, as were Bobby Cundiff, who served on council from 1994 to 1998, and Mark Newbill, a former councilman and mayor.

Less than one-third of the town's registered voters voted in Tuesday's race.

"I wish more people would have come out and participate," Agee said.