CURRENT Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council leader Clive Sanders was pleased with the result of the local election count despite the party losing their majority on the council.

The Conservative party have lost their majority rule over Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council following the loss of the Buckskin ward, which was occupied by Tory councillor, Robert Taylor.

Labour candidate Nigel Pierce completed the steal of the night, beating Cllr Taylor to the seat by just 50 votes, claiming 508 votes compared to Robert Taylor’s 458.

The party now holds 29 seats, followed by Labour with 17, Liberal Democrats with 8 and the four Independent councillors.

As reported by The Gazette, mystery currently surrounds Brighton Hill South winner, Matthew Ellery and whether he is a UKIP candidate or an Independent candidate.

But speaking after all the results were declared by returning officer Karen Brimacombe, Cllr Sanders told The Gazette: “Firstly, we will have our group meeting and decide what the group wants to do but the fact that we are on one less than last year gives a fairly clear sign. We will see what happens.”

The current council leader was also pleased to retain his seat in East Woodhay, winning 674 votes, adding: “I am always pleased but you can never take it for granted. It is always a relief.”