LABOUR emerged victorious in Southend's Milton Ward by-election - retaining Julian Ware-Lane's seat.

Stephen George is now a Milton ward councillor, after earing 833 votes. 

The by-election was called after Mr Ware-Lane passed away in January. 

Controversery surrounded the by-election, after a Conservative campaign leaflet was circulated stating the council will now have to fund a by-election with money “which could have been spent on tackling anti-social behaviour, policing or roads”.

Stephen George - LAB - 833

Garry Lowen - CON - 528

James Quail - FOR BRITAIN - 89

Carol White - LIB DEM - 219

Turnout 20.55%