Poll result shows you can’t take it as Red

You went to the polls – and you have spoken. The votes have been counted and the dust has settled. But the fall-out from Sunderland City Council’s local elections may continue for a while yet.

It was a particularly bruising night for Labour. They lost six sitting councillors, while three of the vacant wards they had previously held were also lost to rivals.

They remain the largest party in the Civic Centre, but have seen their numbers trimmed to 42 councillors, just four more than the 38-majority required. Labour stay in control of the local authority, despite some predictions they may lose their grasp on power, but their political opponents had more reason to celebrate.

Both the Conservatives – who also had a stunning by-election success down the A19 in Hartlepool to savour – and the Liberal Democrats made gains in various wards across Wearside. Both will hope to build on those results in future elections while Labour will seek to recoup its losses down the line. It will make for fascinating viewing going forward.

But all of those elected councillors, despite their political differences, need to be united by one thing: A desire to make life better for the people of Sunderland. Each has been handed a great responsibility by the electorate. Each must now step up to the task and ensure the city has a bright future and services to be proud of. After weeks of electioneering, the time for talk is over.

Now, across Sunderland’s political spectrum and council chamber, is the time for action.