by political editor Paul Francis

Voters will go to the polls today in just two council areas in Kent.

People in Maidstone will be deciding who should represent them in 20 of the council's seats, while 18 seats are up for grabs in Tunbridge Wells.

In both councils, the Conservatives are currently in control and will be defending a total of 25 wards - 10 in Maidstone and 15 in Tunbridge Wells.

In Maidstone, the Conservatives could lose power if they suffer a net loss of three seats.

All the main parties are contesting the elections as are several independent candidates, UKIP and the Green Party.

Counting for Maidstone begins on Thursday night, with Tunbridge Wells counting starting on Friday.

Click on the wards above to see the current political make-up

Elections are also taking place in London for the position of Mayor of London, here Boris Johnson is aiming to secure a second term.

His re-election could give renewed impetus to his call for the idea of a Thames Estuary airport to be considered.

Polling stations are open until 10pm tonight.