The local elections revisited: an analysis of results in the South West

The long-awaited Liberal Democrat revival in their traditional strongholds finally transpired. But the independents also made big gains.

Holly Whitbread: We must not let disenchantment with national politics open the doors to extremists

We usually seen them off in Epping Forest. But it is important to deliver on Brexit to avoid grievances being exploited.

Paul Mercer: How the Conservatives fought off Labour in Charnwood

We maintained a high presence throughout the four-year term. As well as running a website and maintaining a social media presence, we produced a regular newsletter.

Judy Terry: Suffolk is no longer a safe haven for the Conservatives

It will take time to rebuild confidence in what has become a very disappointed and sceptical electorate.

Greig Baker: Reflections from Canterbury on the local elections. Trust is evaporating.

I have never seen so many spoiled ballots before – and every single one carried some variation of “give us Brexit now”.

Council by-election results from yesterday and forthcoming contests

The Conservatives held a seat in East Lothian. A local Residents Association held a seat in Havering.

The local elections revisited: An analysis of results in the South East

It is easy to conclude that the Conservatives were the biggest losers. The question of who won is more complicated.

Barry Lewis: In Derbyshire, our message of backing Brexit helped us in the local elections

There appears to be a correlation between Conservative success and a stance that shows you support the democratic wishes of the people.

Anna Firth: Holding back the tide in Kent during last week’s local elections

In Sevenoaks we ran an uber-local campaign. I am pleased to report that this was a successful strategy.

Neva Sadikoglu-Novaky and Jonathan Werran: Brexit gives the chance to have full fiscal devolution. Let’s take it.

Through tax competition, we could truly have a real Northern Powerhouse and give cities in the north a fairer chance against London and the south east.

Gareth Lyon: How we held the line in Rushmoor

We have built up a rapport with the Nepalese community. The key planks of their culture are profoundly Conservative.

The quiet progress of the Troubled Families programme

Fewer children are going into care. Crime is reduced. The taxpayer is saving money. The Government was right to defy the critics of this initiative.

Jonathan Werran: Councils and business should talk about how local productivity can be improved

A deal has been agreed between West Sussex County Council and Gatwick Airport on improving community housing and infrastructure.

Paul Mercer: We are winning the battle of ideas in Charnwood

After 12 years in power, the Conservatives are still coming up with radical new policies. Bringing empty homes back into use is one priority.

Boys Smith takes over from Scruton, chairing the Building Better, Building Beautiful Commission

Brokenshire feels the dismissal of Scruton “could have been handled differently”. But the work to ensure new homes are attractive will continue.