Liberal Democrats win control of Hull City Council from Labour

The Liberal Democrats celebrate taking control of Hull Council. Credit: PA

Labour have lost control of Hull City Council for the first time since 2011, with the Liberal Democrats gaining a narrow majority.

The Lib Dems won 29 seats to Labour's 27. Hull's only Conservative, Cllr John Fareham, was ousted by Labour's Sarah Harper.

Lib Dem leader Cllr Mike Ross claimed the win as "fantastic for the city".

Lib Dem leader Cllr Mike Ross and Labour leader Cllr Darren Hale react to the result

He added: "What the public said loud and clear is they wanted to see change and by voting for the Liberal Democrats they can do that."

But as Labour goes into opposition, leader Cllr Darren Hale said it was important for them to hold the Liberal Democrats to account.

He added the loss for Labour was "very disappointing."