Tories lose almost half of their councillors in local elections, but one result gives UK prime minister Rishi Sunak solace

Labour leader Keir Starmer hails it a historic victory for his party as PM clings to northern hope

Labour leader Keir Starmer, left, with the new Labour mayor for York and North Yorkshire David Skaith after victory. Photo: Getty

PA Political Staff

The Tories suffered a drubbing in the British local elections yesterday, losing around half of their councillors.

However, with a general election just months away, UK prime minister Rishi Sunak has looked to the Tees Valley for consolation as Ben Houchen’s re-election on Teesside was one of the few bright spots for the Conservatives.