The Lib Dems in Hackney are coming to terms with the local election’s “bittersweet” results, which saw their colleagues across the country make significant gains - but saw them completely wiped off the map here.

The three seats in Cazenove ward - which had been a Lib Dem stronghold - were taken by Labour party candidates Caroline Woodley, Anthony McMahon and Sam Pallis.

The Lib Dem’s Hackney leader, Ian Sharer lost his seat, and new candidates Isaac Kornbluh and Javed Isrolia failed to make the grade.

This bucked the national picture which saw Lib Dems gain the most seats nationally.

Hackney Lib Dems’ vice chair Darren Martin said: “As we proudly congratulate Liberal Democrat colleagues in London and across the country who have made significant gains, we at the same time are coming to terms with losing our seats in Hackney.

“I would like to thank Ian Sharer for his 24 years of service to his community on Hackney Council - a true gentleman who always has time for people no matter what their political persuasion. His voice will be sorely missed in the council chamber.”

He said the results must be tempered with the fact that his party has never been stronger here.

“Our membership is at a record high and we were able to run an ambitious campaign, putting forward a strong social liberal vision for the borough, with real policy solutions for issues facing the whole community.”