Labour and Conservatives lising to Independents – even in their heartlands and, in one case, on a single issue problem. Take elections held yesterday:
Wollaton West (Nottingham): Labour GAIN from Conservative.
* Farnworth (Bolton): Farnworth & Kearsley First GAIN from Labour.
* Oakham South East (Rutland): Independent GAIN from Conservative.
Rochester West (Medway): Labour GAIN from Conservative.
Northchurch (Dacorum): Liberal Democrat GAIN from Conservative
Droylsden East (Tameside): Labour HOLD
* Petersfield Bell Hill (East Hampshire): Independent GAIN from Conservative
Little Parndon & Hare Street (Harlow): Labour HOLD
* = Independent victories
East Devon Watch 