THE Conservative Party has lost control of Maldon District Council, according to an update on the council's website.

The political balance page on the website was changed this afternoon (Monday, 7 September) to reflect the power shift. It is understood that Councillor Maddie Thompson has left the Tory group at the council and has been added to the ranks of 'non-aligned' Conservative councillors, making the current tally five.

This follows Councillor Adrian Fluker becoming 'non'aligned' last week.

The current political balance at Maldon District Council is now as follows:

• Conservative Group - 11

• Independent Group - 12

• Conservative (Non-Aligned) - 5

• Independent (Non-Aligned) - 2

• Vacancy - 1

The leader of the Conservative group – and currently Leader Designate – of Maldon District Council is Councillor Elaine Bamford.

The leader of the Independent group (which does not include the two non-aligned Independents) is Councillor Mark Heard.

A decision on the positions of council leader, deputy, chairman and committee roles will be made at the Annual Statutory Meeting in October.