Lib Dems lose long-term Cambridge stronghold

The Liberal Democrats have lost overall control of Cambridge - a stronghold for more than a decade.

The party had held the university city since 2000 after wresting control from Labour.

But although the Lib Dems lost four wards to Labour and one to the Conservatives they hope to retain control by the mayor's casting vote.

Combined with a Green party defection to Labour earlier in the day, it leaves the Lib Dems with 21 seats in a 42 seat council.

Lewis Herbert, the city's Labour leader, said: "This is a great night which shows the people of Cambridge feel let down by Nick Clegg and the Lib Dems."