Simon Jupp says that today's election count in East Devon 'has been difficult' for his party. 

Speaking to our reporter at the East Devon District Council elections at Westpoint Arena this afternoon, Mr Jupp said that today has been difficult for the Conservative Party nationwide in all council seats. 

"We have got some good results in East Devon, particularly in Sidmouth, Seaton parts of Honiton and Exmouth but we were expecting a difficult day and its delivered that," he said. 

Commenting on Conservative group leader Phillip Skinner losing his seat, Mr Jupp added: "Phillip Skinner has been an excellent leader of our group on the district council  and I'm very sorry to see him leave. The incoming councillor for that area has very big shoes to fill.

"We will work together and hold the new administration to account, whoever that be and however that will look, because there was no party with overall control, to account for their decisions and what they plan to do. I think everyone should work together, lets see if that happens.  

"It's going to an interesting time, I just want to make sure that our council is value for money. I pay my council tax to East Devon and I want to make sure every penny that I give to the council is spent wisely, so as one of the MPs, I'll be scrutinising every penny." 

The conservatives now have 17 seats in East Devon District Council - the biggest loss for the party being Mr Skinner.  

Speaking on his 24 years as a councillor, Mr Skinner said: “I’ve worked passionately for East Devon. It’s been in my heart for 24 years to be honest with you and I’m deeply upset really. 

“However, I’m leader of the Conservative group here and I’ve got to see my other colleagues over the line. And hopefully we can still win power in the elections.” 

Since 2019, East Devon District Council has been controlled by the Democratic Alliance, which consisted of councillors from the East Devon Alliance, Liberal Democrats, the Labour Party, the Green Party and some Independents. 

The Liberal Democrats have gained 11 seats, while Independents have lost eight and the Conservatives lost five.