Election results so far at a glance - and what's still to come

Reform UK has made notable advances in early council election results across England, capitalizing on losses by both Labour and the Conservatives. The party secured all 12 seats contested in Hartlepool and made gains in traditional Labour strongholds such as Wigan, Bolton, Salford, and Halton. In several councils including Tameside, Redditch, and Tamworth, Labour lost control amid a surge in Reform UK support. Notably, Reform UK also claimed its first council seat from the Conservatives in Newcastle-under-Lyme. These elections, the largest since the 2024 general election, serve as a critical test for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and the broader political landscape. The Conservative Party experienced setbacks in multiple areas, losing seats to Reform UK in Brentwood, Tamworth, and North East Lincolnshire. Despite these losses, the Tories achieved some successes, regaining control of Westminster Council from Labour and reclaiming their position as the largest party on Wandsworth Council. These London councils had been Conservative bastions for decades before Labour’s 2022 victories. The Conservatives continue to face challenges from Reform UK in upcoming county council results in Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk, while the Liberal Democrats remain a significant threat in southern England, particularly in Surrey and Sussex. The Liberal Democrats had a mixed night, securing control of Stockport and Portsmouth by gaining seats from Labour, but losing Hull to Reform UK. The party anticipates stronger performances later in the day, targeting councils in Hampshire and Surrey currently held by the Conservatives. Meanwhile, the Green Party is also positioning itself for potential gains, particularly in London, as the full results from Scotland, Wales, and 136 English councils are expected later. These elections will provide a clearer picture of shifting political dynamics across the UK ahead of future national contests.