THE Conservatives held on to the Aveley and Uplands ward vacated by colourful character Colin Churcman with some comfort.

The new Tory councillor is Amanda Wilton who said: "I just want to thank my family, partner and the Conservative party for all their help and all the constituents for voting for me."

Result:

Amanda Wilton (Con) 845

Dave Strickson (BNP)521

John Garner (Lab) 363

John Livermore (Lib Dem)128

Maj 324

Con hold

Turnout 29%