Has Labour been hung out to dry in west Lancashire?

There's now a hung borough council with Conservatives celebrating meanwhile at county level after two candidates triumphed to take their seats at County Hall.

The party did well in last week's elections, gaining a County Division from the Independents, a Borough Ward from Labour and increasing their majorities in most of the other seats according to Cllr. David Westley.

The borough party leader told QLocal this afternoon: "I was delighted with the outcome of what was a hard fought campaign.

"Not only did we make two strategically important gains but we were also successful in getting four new candidates elected in existing Conservative wards.

"Rob Bailey fought an excellent campaign on the important local issues in the West Lancs East Division and I know he will be a strong voice for his local residents at the County Council.

"And Denise Hirrell was an excellent local candidate who cares passionately about her community and its environment.

"Well known locally, Denise fought off the usual negative campaign from an independent and successfully gained the seat from Labour with a very good majority.

"West Lancs returned four county councillors and this was a major contribution towards the Conservatives retaining control of Lancashire County Council with an increased majority of 12.

"With West Lancs now a hung council, I am hopeful that we can now stop Labour from doing further damage to the Council's finances, cut waste and introduce the necessary efficiencies that will preserve essential frontline services.

"I give you my assurance that the Conservatives will always act in the best interests of the residents of the Borough."