CONSERVATIVES retained control of Trafford Council after a closely fought election count this afternoon.

The ruling Conservative group lost one seat in Broadheath to the Labour party, but gained one in Timperley from the Liberal Democrats.

Of 63 council seats, Conservatives now hold 34, Labour have 26 and Liberal Democrats have three, which means the Conservatives have an overall majority of two.

Council leader, Cllr Sean Anstee, said: “There has been a clear choice in this election, a clear dividing line and the residents of the borough have chosen to support the Conservative party and for that I’m very grateful.”

Labour group leader, Cllr David Acton said the Labour group was very pleased to win Broadheath and close the gap in Flixton and Davyhulme West.

Liberal Democrat leader, Cllr Ray Bowker, said he felt ‘mixed emotions’ following the result, expressing disappointment to have lost a seat in Timperley ward, but pleased to have held onto Village.