Following the election, John Whittingdale, MP for Maldon was disappointed his party had experienced such a loss of seats.

He added the result is a reflection on the current feelings of the public surrounding Brexit.

Mr Whittingdale said: “A lot of my friends and hard working councillors have lost, and I am very sorry about that.

“I do not think that is a reflection upon them, I believe that is a reflection on the feeling against the Conservative party nationally and everything I have seen reported across the country has been Brexit related.

“I understand that completely, I feel just as frustrated as a lot of people.

“But, it is sad for those people who have not been associated with that who lost their seat in the district.

“I congratulate everyone who has won their seat too, I’m pleased Maldon remains under Conservative control and I look forward to working with all the new councillors.”