But Mr Howarth's victory, a Liberal Democrat gain from Labour, was not enough to give his party overall control of the authority, which remains a hung council. The Lib Dems increased their seats by one to 20, two short of the number needed for a majority.

Mr Howarth said: "I'm del-ighted to get in straight away, I thought it would take at least 10 years. To get in at 18 is fantastic. Obviously, crime is a big issue for the people of East Marsh, and social housing. There's sort of an uncertain future for the residents of Guildford Street (a target for regeneration), but we've got to ensure they are kept informed at all times and their views are listened to and respected."

Also enjoying his first electoral success was Grimsby Town football club chairman John Fenty, elected as a Tory in the Humberston and New Waltham ward.

But there was dismay at the low turnout, 31 per cent. Council leader Andrew De Freitas said: "I don't know whether it's that local government doesn't excite people enough, general apathy or both. But it's quite sad... " Tories won Immingham from the Lib Dems to increase their seats to 16 while Labour lost Freshney to the Lib Dems, leaving the party with just four seats. The Independents remain on two seats.