THE Conservative Party has held on to control of Thurrock Council, gaining a seat in last Thursday’s elections.

The election was held in 17 of the borough’s 20 wards.

The results mean the Conservative party is in overall control of the council, while the Labour party maintained 16 seats, gaining one and losing one.

The Conservative councillors now number 29, with 28 seats being held and one seat being gained.

The Thurrock Independents also held on to their seats, maintaining three councillors.

There was one other independent who held their seat, while another candidate lost theirs. In total in the borough, the overall turnout was 27.34 per cent.

The Tories held on to stronghold seats such as Aveley and Uplands, Belhus, Orsett, Ockendon, Stanford-le-hope West and Stanford East and Corringham Town.

The party gained the Chadwell St Mary ward from Labour, bringing their total to 29 seats.

Rob Gledhill, Tory leader of the council, said: “It was a fantastic day and I thank the residents of Thurrock for putting faith in all our candidates, not just those that won, but those that nearly won.

“Those that weren’t successful really came close in realistic terms of winning.

“To break the red wall in Chadwell was fantastic – to see off the independents was fantastic.”

Labour held on to Grays Riverside and Grays Thurrock, along with West Thurrock and South Stifford.

The party then also gained Tilbury St Chads, which was previously held by an independent councillor.

This year’s election marks the last for Labour councillor Oliver Gerrish, who is stepping down from the council following 13 years of service.

Mr Gerrish said: “As I’m stepping down from Thurrock Council this year I would like to thank all the residents of West Thurrock, South Stifford and Purfleet-on-Thames for their continued support these last 13 years.

“It’s been a real privilege to be a councillor for the ward and to represent you. There has been a lot of change in the area over that time, and I think there is huge potential for the next few years. I’m confident that you’re in good hands.”