The Liberal Democrats have achieved a stunning result in the local elections in Hitchin.

Paul Clark has been elected as councillor for Hitchin South, taking the seat from previous long-serving incumbent Derrick Ashley by the slenderest of margins.

Mr Clark received 1,930 votes to Mr Ashley's 1,888 votes, to land the seat by 42 votes.

Prominent Hitchin Liberal Democrat councillor Sam Collins tweeted with delight: "Hitchin South Lib Dem gain!

"Paul is going to be a fantastic representative for the local area."

Full Hitchin South result:

Paul Clark (Lib Dem): 1,930 (elected)

Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg (Labour): 765

Leigh Smith (Christian Peoples Alliance): 54