A spectacular performance against the BNP last week provided political green shoots to cheer Labour as it went to conference – the last before the general election. Its majority at Three Rivers DC rocketed from just 14 votes to almost 300.
In September:
l Tories gained from Labour at Medway Council and from independent (unopposed) at West Somerset DC, and held seats at Broxtowe BC, Buckinghamshire CC, Daventry DC (two), Newark and Sherwood DC, North Tyneside MBC, Nottinghamshire CC and Tendring DCl Labour gained from Green at Leicester City and defended seats at Amber Valley BC, Plymouth City, Redcar and Cleveland Council, Three Rivers DC and York Cityl Lib Dems gained from Tories at Malvern Hills DC, and held seats at Costwold DC, Harborough DC and Stockport MBCl Respect defended a Birmingham City seat
l Independent Community and Health Concern held a Wyre Forest DC seat
l Independent gained from Tory at Wiltshire Council, and held seats at Hartlepool Council and South Tyneside MBC.
Staying Safe in Local Elections: Challenges and support for candidates
With local elections nearing, rising abuse fears are deterring candidates - this analysis explores risks, definitions, and new guidance to support safer campaigning.
