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INDEPENDENT candidate Ron Woodley trounced the Tories in their own heartland with a thumping 791-vote majority
Tory candidate Nigel Folkard lost to Independent candidate Ron Woodley, chairman of the Burges Estate Residents' Association which has more than 1,500 members.
The association has been fighting plans for flats in the area.
Thorpe ward is a traditional Conservative ward. Tory councillors have in the past received majorities of more than 1,200 votes.
The loss of Thorpe ward will send shockwaves through the Rochford and Southend East Conservative Association which has battled to retain the seat in the face of the challenge from Mr Woodley.
Last week, an email leaked to the Echo revealed party officials were concerned at the loss of Thorpe ward.
It warned: "The loss of what has been referred to as the jewel in the crown' would cause ripples well into Southend West and embolden all opposition in future elections."
Mr Folkard, pictured above, said the Conservatives would be back. Mr Woodley said he would campaign for improvements to Thorpe Bay.
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