Labour loses control in Blaenau Gwent

5:47am Friday 2nd May 2008

LABOUR has lost control of Blaenau Gwent council.

The borough has long been considered a Labour heartland, but yesterday's elections left the party with just 17 seats - a slim majority and not enough to take control.

The Independents closely followed, winning 16 seats.

Five People's Voice candidates, two Liberal Democrats, and two candidates who are not affiliated with a party also won seats.

Discussions between the parties about forming a coalition are expected to begin soon.