Jean Law fights back tears after election defeat

Tories in Herne Bay were left stunned today after a shock defeat at the polls by UKIP.

Conservative incumbants Jean Law and David Hirst were ousted after a recount at the Kings Hall this afternoon.

The pair - who had enjoyed a healthy majority at the last county council elections in 2009 - trailed more than 200 votes behind Brian Macdowall and Nicholas Bond.

Lib Dem candidates Margaret Flaherty and June Raybaud also fell from their position as closest challengers to finish 9th and 11th respectively.

The Herne Bay seats were the only ones to change hands across the Canterbury district, despite UKIP winning an impressive 17 of the 84 up for grabs in Kent.

Speaking after the defeat, Mrs Law said: "I'm disappointed but then I would be because I've worked in Herne Bay. It's where I brought the kids up.

"I couldn't of worked any harder for the people of Herne Bay and I'm just sorry for all the volunteers along the way.

"It has been a disastrous day for the Conservatives and they may have to re-think what they are doing."