EAST Tilbury remains an independent stronghold after veteran councillor Barry Palmer retained his seat in emphatic fashion.

Despite a tough year which has seen him fight a major battle against illness and then walk into a planning controversy that brought the council to the brink of a judicial review, councillor Palmer remians a hit with the East Tilbury votors, polling three times more votes than his rivals.

The BNP did claim second spot, though in coming third of three candidates, Labour's Felton Flavius could still draw some comfort. He said: "We got a few more votes than last time so we're happy with the outcome."

Councillor Palmer said: "I'd like to thank the people of East Tilbury who have continued to support me over the last 25 years."

Result:

Barry Palmer (Ind) 923

Bradley Elvin (BNP)286

Felton Flavius (Labour) 220

Maj 637

Ind hold

Turnout 31%