IT WAS a triumphant night for the Tories in Medway as they marched back into power.

Despite having to deal with some controversial local issues, the Conservatives strengthened their grip on the council.

They now have 33 seats with Labour holding 12, Liberal Democrat eight and one Independent.

Council leader Rodney Chambers said: "This is a vindication of the hard work we have done over the past four years. We have many things to do and the works starts tomorrow when I get up .... I mean today."

All three major parties lost big name councillors. Biggest shock of the night was the loss of the adult services portfolio holder, Wendy Purdy (Con) who was ousted by veteran Liberal Herbie Crack in Watling.

The Lib Dems took all three seats off Labour in Gillingham North, including that of shadow children’s services spokesman, Adam Price.

But the Lib Dems suffered badly in Rainham. They lost former mayor Ken Webber and their group whip Richard Guichard in Gillingham North.

They also they failed to take any seats in Rainham Central where they had strong hopes of regaining power from the Conservatives.