The Conservative leadership suffered a shattering blow at West Lindsey District Council yesterday even though the party maintained a firm grip on power.

Council leader Adam Duguid's eight year stint as Market Rasen representative was brought to an end following the success of Liberal Democrat Ken Bridger.

A tense atmosphere suffused the count at West Lindsey Leisure Centre, in Gainsborough, with both men watching anxiously.

But the pair shook hands amicably after it was announced Mr Bridger had polled 1,292 votes and Mr Duguid 1,120.

Independent Deborah Theobald secured a decisive 276 votes.

Speaking to the Echo, Mr Duguid said he was disappointed to lose following five months as leader.

"If you go into politics you have to be prepared to lose and win," he said.

"I will look on the positive side. I have enjoyed being a councillor for eight years and leader of the council. It's been a real privilege. I am always hopeful about the future and I will continue to support the Conservatives."

Mr Duguid said he had not decided if he would make another attempt to become a district councillor.

"It's not the time to think about it," he said.

"I wish Ken all the best and will let him get on with it."

The Echo understands long-term Conservative member Councillor Chris Underwood-Frost could be one of the leadership candidates when the race to replace Mr Duguid begins in earnest.

Despite the significant loss, the Tories remain in control of the authority with 21 seats following elections in 12 of West Lindsey's 37 wards.

The party was successful in gaining Hemswell from the Liberal Democrats and Wold View from the party's former leader Bernard Theobald.

Conservative candidates were also re-elected in Bardney, Cherry Willingham, Fiskerton and Waddingham & Spital.

The vacant Scampton seat was decided by just one vote following a recount with the opposition Lib Dems emerging victorious.

Heather Shore, wife of opposition leader Reg, defeated Tory Roger Patterson by 815 votes to 814.

In Nettleham, 80-year-old Lib Dem Alf Frith triumphed comprehensively against Giles McNeill, despite his opponent boosting the Tory vote above 1,000.

The opposition group also retained Gainsborough North, Gainsborough East and Thonock and now have 14 seats.