A GROUP of independents standing under the banner of Horwich First won its first two town council seats.

But Labour retained control of Horwich Town Council, winning nine of the 14 seats, down two on their haul in 2011.

The Liberal Democrats lost one seat, claiming two on the newly-formed council.

Meanwhile, the Conservatives have regained a presence on the council, winning one seat through popular borough councillor Bob Allen in Claypool.

Labour borough councillors Joyce Kellett and Kevin McKeon were re-elected in Brazley.

Patricia Holmes claimed 1048 votes to win Bridge ward, with Michael Jarvis and Peter Wright ensuring that Labour retained the three seats.

Glen Atkinson retained his seat on the council despite defecting from Labour to the Liberal Democrats, claiming 452 votes in Church ward.

He was joined by Marie Brady, who won the ward under the name of Horwich First, with 719 votes.

Joining Cllr Allen in Claypool is Liberal Democrat Stephen Rock who retains his seat.

However his wife Lynn Rock lost her seat in Lever Park, with Ken Denton and Cath Schofield winning seats for Labour.

Horwich First's Steven Chadwick won the third seat, by just one vote after a recount.

Jim Bullock and Chris Root won for Labour in Vale.