Conservatives have lost control of Reigate & Banstead Council for the first time in 24 years.

Councillor Zelanie Cooper, who represents Lower Kingswood, Tadworth and Walton ward, is now acting as an Independent.

Ms Cooper has told us “I can confirm that I have resigned from the Conservative Party and am acting as an independent Councillor now.”

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council told us “any decision that may be required regarding political balance of the Council will take place at Full Council on the 28^th of  March, through a committee report.”