Labour supporters deserted the party in droves as it suffered defeat in the only two council by-elections held amid this week's leadership turmoil.
The Liberal Democrat Sharon Wilson scored a landslide victory at Poulton North, Warrington Borough, where her party narrowly won another seat in May.
Independent candidate Nanette Kirsen snatched Labour's Pill stronghold on North Somerset council.
Some Labour supporters have warned of a voting slump in next May's polls if Tony Blair has not quit as the prime minister before then. The party's only consolation was that the Tories finished third and fourth in the two contests.
Results:
North Somerset Council - Pill: Ind 360, Lab 353, Lib Dem 202, C 147. (May 2003 - Lab 587, C 222, Lib Dem 150). Ind gain from Lab. Swing 15.7% Lab to Lib Dem.
Warrington Borough - Poulton North: Lib Dem 1358, Lab 505, C 209, Green 43. (May 2006 - Lib Dem 1021, Lab 859, C 421). Lib Dem gain from Lab. Swing 16.6% Lab to Lib Dem.
Ken R
I definitely think the writings on the wall here Admin ! It's time for "Tone" to atone
And if Gord thinks he will waltz through the next election, he's in for a bit of a disappointment
Sandie Seward
I've got my doubts if 'Gordy' will even become the next Labour Leader, to be honest, Ken. I just don't think he's leadership material. (Blimey, never thought I'd find myself in agreement with ol' Clarky Boy!
