YORK is facing a tug of war for power and influence after a dramatic day of political upheaval in the local election.
Massive losses for the ruling Liberal Democrats and huge gains for the Conservatives mean City of York Council is now under the control of no one party.
The Lib Dems lost a third of their seats, going from 29 to 19. Labour reclaimed Holgate to increase their representation from 15 to 18, but the big story was the rise of the Tories, who went from no seats to eight.
They essentially hold the key to power, as an alliance with either Labour or the Lib Dems would create a majority.
Lib Dem leader Steve Galloway said: "The onus is very much going to be on the Conservatives now."
Labour's Dave Merrett said: "It's been a good day for Labour."
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