MALVERN Hills District Council will remain under Conservative power despite the loss of a number of seats.

The Conservatives returned with 21 seats, the Liberal Democrats 11, four for the Independents and Greens two.

The final result was delayed by the Dyson Perrins ward undergoing six re-counts, with Conservative candidate Harry Tanner eventually admitting defeat.

Conservative leader Phil Grove said: "It's considerably closer than we thought.

"The result was obviously in our favour and I am delighted the residents of Malvern have given us another four years to continue our excellent work. "It's challenging and exciting times before us. We were hoping for a few more seats, but there's some new councillors on there.

"We look forward to what they bring to us."

Tom Wells, of the Liberal Democrats, said: "It's what you would describe as a good day's work. It was a hard-fought campaign across the district.

"It means that for many people they will have a Liberal councillor serving them. The council is under more scrutiny than ever before."

This year's result shows a considerable swing, as last time the Conservatives had 26 seats to the Liberals six.

The voter turnout was 47.5 per cent.