The Labour Party has lost its majority on the Durham County Council for the first time in 100 years.
In a crushing blow for Sir Keir Starmer’s party, The Conservatives picked up 14 seats in the local elections, meaning that while Labour still has the most number of councillors, they no longer have a majority.
It will be the first time since 1925 that the region – which is home to the annual Miners’ Gala – will not be in Labour’s hands.
Speaking to the Northern Echo, Labour councillor Carl Marshall said: “ I am delighted to have retained my seat and I am looking forward to representing the people of Stanley on Durham County Council.
“It’s been a really tough couple of days for the Labour party in County Durham.
“I am very disappointed that we have lost some long-standing councillors have gone, but this is politics and the people have spoken.
“It’s clear that things will be different going forwards but Labour will continue to be the majority party on the council, and I think we will continue to stand up for what the people of County Durham want and believe in.
“We will continue to support young people and businesses through the pandemic and to improve opportunities in the county.”
Reaction on social media has been one of disbelief, with Rachel Wearmouth saying it represents a “seismic shift”.
Others called it an “utter disgrace”, capping off what has been an awful week for the Labour Party.
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