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4 May 2012, 06:56 | Updated: 4 May 2012, 07:11
It's been a bad night for the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats in the local elections.
Labour has racked up significant gains in England and Wales as voters seem to have punished the government for its austerity measures.
Nine councils in Essex were up for election. So far we have the results for eight districts and boroughs and are expecting the Epping decision later.
ESSEX
Basildon
In Basildon there was no change as the Conservatives held on to power despite losing three seats.Labour has gained three seats.
Brentwood
No change in Brentwood as the Conservatives keep control here despite losing three seats. Liberal Democrats gain two seats and Labour also gains one.
Castle Point
In Castle Point there was no change as the Conservatives continue to hold onto power.
Colchester
Colchester remains with no party in overall control. Labour and Liberal Democrats both gained one seat each and the Tories lost 2.
Harlow
In Harlow Labour took control of the council from the Tories. Labour won five new seats. The Conservatives lost four and the Liberal Democrats lost one.
Rochford
The Conservatives remain in control of Rochford.
Southend-on-Sea
The Conservatives have lost overall control of Southend with Labour winning two seats and one gain for the Independent party.
Thurrock
In Thurrock Labour took control of the party gaining two new seats. UKIP also won a seat and the Tories lost three.
EAST HERTFORDSHIRE
Broxbourne
The Conservatives have held on to power in Broxbourne.
Hertsmere
The Conservative party retained control of Hertsmere despite losing one seat. Labour gained three new seats.