THE former leader of Kidderminster Town Council has spoken of his disappointment at losing his seat by a narrow margin.

Franche and Habberley North ward councillor David Ross had been the first ever leader of the council, which is now left hung after one party failed to win overall control.

In a battering for the Tories which reflects the national picture the party lost six of its 11 seats - leaving it with just five.

The result has been a coup for Labour which is now the largest party with six seats - up from its former count of just one.

Mr Ross lost his seat to Labour candidate Bernadette Connor by a narrow margin of just 23 votes.

He said: "It's a disappointing result, but that's democracy and we have to respect the wishes of the voters.

"I'm not alone - it's quite widespread nationally despite the good work our local councillors have done and will continue to do.

"You can't fight the national picture- it's not good and there we are.

"I'd like to thank all those who voted for me and for the support of my colleagues.

"I look forward to the next fight in 2028."

Mr Ross said councillors on parish and town councils are volunteers and do not receive any pay. 

Mr Ross remains a Wyre Forest District Councillor for Franche and Habberley North. He is cabinet member for Finance and Capital Portfolio for the authority.

He is also a Worcestershire County Councillor.

He was first elected to the newly formed Kidderminster Town Council in 2016 and served as Mayor of Kidderminster from 2019-2020.

In 2021 he became the first ever leader of Kidderminster Town Council.  

The final result is: Conservatives - 5; Liberal Democrats - 2; Labour - 6; Independents - 4; Greens - 1.

There is no overall control of the council as a single party must have nine seats or more to have a majority.