by Paul Francis

The outcome of the political battle for control of Kent County Council, one of the country's largest authorities, will be known later today (Friday) when the results for all 84 divisions being contested are declared.

The first set of results are expected to be known this morning but a complete picture of who has won what may not be known until later this afternoon when all the votes cast have been tallied up.

Counts are taking place in the 12 districts and the timing of results could be affected by turnout. The Conservatives are optimistic that the results will bear out their pre-election claim that they are poised to tighten their grip on County Hall while the opposition Labour group is privately bracing itself for a poor set of results which could see their numbers reduced to single figures. They could prove particularly vulnerable in places like Dover and Thanet, where they have several seats.

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats are hoping their pre-election call to disaffected Labour supporters to lend them their vote will enable them to increase their numbers on the council.

A range of independent and minority parties have also contested the election, including UKIP and the Green party. The BNP has also fielded a handful of candidates.

Kent Online and kmfm will be providing a full results service, along with reaction and analysis from our political editor Paul Francis throughout the day.

The results from the European election will be declared on Sunday evening.