The Conservatives have suffered 1000 councillor losses – and the count is not over yet. This was the figure Tory aides used when they were attempting to manage expectations in advance. That the party is on course to exceed it shows that the result is worse than many in Tory circles had expected. Meanwhile, Labour are now the largest party in local government for the first time since 2002. The Liberal Democrats also have plenty to cheer about – gaining control of 12 councils.
So, how much trouble are the Tories in? The fact that the party has been losing seats to the Liberal Democrats in traditional Tory heartlands while Labour have been making gains in parts of the red wall means MPs across the party have cause to be anxious. There have been slivers of good news in Stockton, Middlesborough, Redcar and South Staffordshire among others.
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