LABOUR has won overall control of Trafford Council for the first time in well over a decade. 

Council boss Andrew Western strengthened his grip on the authority after running it as a minority administration since wrestling control from the Conservatives last year.  

The victory caused a ‘painful’ political headache for the Tories, who, after a bad election in 2018, this year lost two seats to the Lib Dems – one in Timperley, the other in Village – and one to the Greens in Altrincham, as well as six to Labour.

Coun Western, who held his Priory ward seat, said: “It is a fantastic result for us, especially the gains in Brooklands and Ashton upon Mersey.

“All the candidates did an amazing job.

“Tonight’s result show just how much the local Conservative group has lost its way.”

Tory councillor Sean Anstee, who had run the town hall until last May, admitted the results were not good for his party.

“It was a very painful night overall,” he said.

“Not just for the party as a whole, but for those dedicated and hardworking councillors who have served the community for a number of years, but lost out tonight.

“I don’t think they deserved that.”

Conservative councillor Dan Bunting did retain his St Mary’s seat, however – as did Coun Patricia Young, who represents Hale Barns.

The Greens completed their takeover of Altrincham, winning the ward’s third seat to complete a full set.

Victorious candidate Michael Welton secured one of the biggest majorities of the night, winning 2,374 votes.

Green Party leader Geraldine Coggins said she was delighted with the result.

“It proves that residents are pleased with the work we have been doing  – and the difference a Green councillor can make in the town,” she said

Labour now hold 36 seats, the Conservatives 20, the Liberal Democrats four and the Greens three.

Turnout overall was 39.5 per cent.