Labour have narrowly gained a seat from the Tories in a Swanley Town Council by-election.

But before they claim it as a major political turnaround, it should be noted that the defeated Tory candidate had been kicked off the council for attending only only meeting since being elected last May.

Labour's Robert Woodbridge ousted Nikki Hill in the Whiteoak ward by 45 votes.

Ms Hill was stripped of her office amid claims that despite staying away from meetings she was attending other council events.

The Tory majority is now two with the council split 9 - 7.

During campaigning, the chairman of the council, Cllr Tony Searles, was heavily criticised for a leaflet issued in his name accusing local residents of wasting £1,500 by calling a by-election.

The council could have avoided an election and just appointed another member unless at least 10 voters called for a poll.

Cllr Searles' protest resulted in him being called before the Standards Committee of Sevenoaks council, where he faces charges of bullying and abuse.

Result:

Nikki Hill (Con) 409

Robert Woodbridge (Lab) 464

Labour Majority 55

There was an 18.54% turnout.