ONE of the night's high profile losers was Conservative councillor Gareth Davies, who was dumped from his West Thurrock and South Stifford seat by Labour's Oliver Gerrish.

Mr Davies was one of the most prominent Conservatives in office, taking a leading and enthusiastic role in the world of arts, as well as business, both key elements of his role on the Cabinet.

However, he was edged out by Labour in a ward where the BNP took 386 votes through candidate Ken Daly, standing for the second time under the right wing party's banner following the slaying of his son - and the subsequent controversially short sentencing of his killers.

Mr Davies found defeat a bitter pill to swallow, saying: ""I'm gutted.

"I don't know how people make up their minds, they've had a hard working councillor for four years - I'm stunned."

Councillor Gerrish said: "I think tonight is a truly specatacular result. We will repay your faith."

Result:

Oliver Gerrish (Lab) 668

Gareth Davies (Con) 586

Ken Daly (BNP)386

Maj 82

Lab gain from Con

Turnout 26%