Monmouthshire County Council has fallen to no overall control following yesterday's election, with the Conservatives three seats short of the 22 they needed to retain overall control.

There was no change in the four councillors representing the Monmouth town wards, but with Alan Wintle and Bob Hayward standing as independents, it goes down as two losses for the Tories. Party leader Peter Fox retained his Portskewett seat.

Labour made gains in the county, reflecting the party's success across Wales and the UK. They have 11 seats to the Conservatives' 19. 10 independent councillors were elected as were three Liberal Democrats.

43 seats covering 42 wards were up for election, although six of these seats were uncontested due to there being only one candidate.

78 polling stations across Monmouthshire opened at 7am and closed at 10pm. There was a 38.3 per cent turnout. Counting took place overnight at Chepstow Leisure Centre, with the first results announced at 2am and the last ones at 5.25am.

Counting for the town and community council elections takes place this morning (Friday 4th May).

Paul Matthews, Monmouthshire County Council's returning officer, said: "I'm delighted to say that the elections were conducted extremely well and I would like to thank the many polling station and counting staff that made it possible.

"I would also like to thank the candidates for following the rules and respecting the democratic process.

"As Monmouthshire County Council's chief executive, I'm looking forward to working with the new council as it faces the challenges of the next five years."

There were 48 people counting the votes, with eight count supervisors.