There were no surprises in Droylsden as the town stayed red.
Long-standing Labour councillor Ged Cooney, who has served for three decades, polled more than a 57 per cent share of the vote with 1,492 votes in Droylsden West.
His votes totally eclipsed his three challengers, with the Conservatives coming second with 633, the Green’s Annie Train recording 319 votes and Maurice Jackson for Reform UK receiving 150 votes.
It was a far better result for the Tories however, who had struggled in more recent elections when UKIP had taken second spot in the 2016 and 2019 elections.
However, with the belief clear that ‘Brexit is now done’ the Reform vote has diminished, aiding the Conservatives.
In Droylsden East it was a similar story for Cllr David Mills, who was also looking to retain his seat for Labour.
There was little cause for concern as he clocked up 1,519 votes - more than 55 per cent of all the votes cast.
Cllr Mills said: “Thank you to my family and friends for being there and listening when I’ve had a low point and questioning if I will win or not, (candidatitus!! It’s a real thing!!) you have always picked me up.
“Thank you to my wider Tameside Labour colleagues for all the help and support. In an increased on-line/social media campaign a big shout out must go to Cllr Oliver Ryan and Cllr George Newton for all the tech support.
“A special thank you to my ward colleague Susan Quinn and my agent Laura Boyle. It was a clean, organised campaign from start to finish (when we were finally allowed to campaign).
“But my biggest, biggest thanks is to all the people of Droylsden East (especially the 1,519 who voted for me) who have chosen me; given me the opportunity and the honour to serve you.
“We have a mandate in Tameside to continue the great work we are doing locally delivering our green agenda, improving mental health and well-being, rolling out the vacation and working with the Mayor Andy Burnham to deliver better buses across Greater Manchester.”
The Conservatives were a clear second with 924 votes - a considerable increase on recent years with the UKIP threat gone. Louise Axon for the Greens received 289 votes.
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