Best ever result for ruling Lib Dems

12.00.00am GMT Fri 2nd May 2003

The ruling Lib Dem group has increased its majority on the city council by gaining two seats from Labour. This is the best-ever result for the Lib Dems in Cambridge.

Why did the Lib Dems do so well? According to David Howarth, returned as the city council leader:

"Our message is playing really well with local voters. They like our focus on basic services, cleaner streets, more recycling and a focus on public transport. We can't deny though, there is a bit of an anti-Blair factor. But the real message on the doorsteps was, 'You're doing alright'. We are certainly delighted to carry on serving the city for another year".