THE Tories have retained control of Southend Council with a majority of three.
However, the party which has ruled at the Civic Centre for the past eight years, lost high-profile councillors David Garston and Sally Carr who saw their seats fall to the Independents.However, Tory candidate Blaine Robin emerged victorious in Kursaal ward, a traditional Labour stronghold.
The Lib Dems took Prittlewell ward from the Tories but Tory Mark Flewitt held on in St Laurence despite a strong Lib Dem challenge.
The Tories also held on in St Luke's ward but Independent Paul van Looy came a strong second.
Independent Mike Assenheim held onto his seat in Shoeburyness.
Tory leader Nigel Holdcroft said: "I am pleased with the overall result although I am disappointed we have lost two senior members.
"Within the next two years we will continue to deliver our policies for Southend and I am sure when the people of the town next come to vote we will be back with a much increased majority."
Lib Dem leader Graham Longley saw his majority in Blenheim park ward slashed to just 16 votes.
Mr Longley said: "I am disappointed but unfortunately I am on crutches at the moment with a broken foot and I haven't had a chance to do any delivering or canvassing myself."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article