VICTORIOUS Lib Dem members have re-gained control of Teignbridge Council after a string of successes in today’s election.

Twenty-six councillors have been sworn into office along with 12 Tories and nine independents, three of whom are part of the Newton Says No group.

Shock departures include ex-Tory leader Jeremy Christophers, his deputy Humphrey Clemens and three former Executive members.

Lib Dem leader Gordon Hook said after his team romped to victory that he was absolutely delighted and had a string of new projects up his sleeve.

He added: ‘I just hope that residents give us some time as turning around the titanic won’t be easy.

‘We will be working day and night to resolve issues and I look forward to the challenging weeks and months ahead.’

A special Lib Dem meeting is being held this afternoon to elect new executive members and a deputy leader.