ELATION turned to disappointment for two candidates within minutes of being declared victorious.

For Labour candidates William Hobson and Christine Wilson, who were both contesting seats on Wear Valley District Council, were officially declared elected, only for the results to be changed after officials realised some votes had gone uncounted.

It is thought at least two ballot boxes had not been included in the results.

When the extra votes were counted, Mr Hobson was defeated in the Stanhope ward by Angela Bolam, an Independent candidate.

And Mrs Wilson was defeated in West Auckland by Colin Mairs, a Lib Dem.

Coun John Ferguson, the leader of Wear Valley Lib Dems, said: "This count has been totally disorganised and a complete shambles."

A statement from Wear Valley District Council is expected later today.

Labour lost control of the heartland council, an authority it has held since 1995.

The Lib Dems gained several seats, giving them a total of 16. Labour is still the biggest party, with 18 seats, but will need to rule either with the Lib Dems or with Independent councillors, of which six were elected.

Coun Neil Stonehouse, the Labour leader, said: "It's a disappointing result, on a very low turnout. It's clearly a reflection of the national picture. I don't think it's a reflection on our work at the council."

Both parties will now hold discussions on how a ruling group can be formed.