AS councils begin to count the votes tonight, Labour is looking to make gains in Wales following its disappointing results in 2008.

The party currently has the highest outright control over the 21 local authorities.

Carwyn Jones's party went into the election in a buoyant mood as a YouGov poll showed support for Labour at 48% - 21% up on four years ago.

According to the statistics, Welsh Conservative support was up by 1% while overall voter intentions for Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Liberal Democrat and independent candidates has fallen.

But political commentator Gareth Hughes said the opinion polls were not necessarily a true reflection of how results would pan out in certain areas due to the diverse nature of Welsh councils.

He said: "The big question will be whether Labour make sufficient gains to take the pressure off Ed Miliband.

"My guess is the polls will be reflected on the night and Ed will be crowing over a major victory.

"However, it is dangerous to take a poll and apply it directly to a given local area.

"Local campaigning can make a difference. Be assured Liberal Democrat councillors are local campaigners par excellence and their work will mitigate some of the YouGov poll's predictions.’’ All but one of the principality's county councils will be subject to the ballot box - due to Anglesey's poll being postponed until next year.