Labour and Ukip gain Rotherham councillors after abuse scandal

After news that at least 1,400 girls were abused in the town, the Government intervened in Rotherham Council and temporarily took control of the local authority.

The commissioners sent to run the authority ordered that a full election take place instead of the system where a quarter of the councillors were put up for election each year.

Labour holds a majority with 48 seats, up one from 47, while Ukip has gained two, up from 12 to 14.

One independent candidate has been elected, down from three, while the Conservatives lost the one seat the party had.

There was a 33 per cent turnout, with 32 per cent voting in the Police and Crime Commissioner election in Rotherham.

The Leader of the Council, Coun Chris Read, retains his seat along with Deputy Leader Coun Gordon Watson, current cabinet member for Children and Young People’s Services.

Lead Commissioner at the Council Sir Derek Myers said: “I am pleased that 163 local people offered themselves as candidates to serve their neighbours. “And on a turn out better than many other areas, voters have now chosen the 63 councillors who will take the council forward.”