THE political future of St Albans District Council will be decided when votes cast for the election of ward councillors are counted this afternoon.

While the General Election continues to dominate national headlines, district council candidates will find out whether they are to be elected to represent their local wards.

Lib Dem power hangs by a slender thread - the party holds 29 council seats, exactly half the chamber, and has to rely on the support of two independents and the casting vote of Mayor Chris Oxley.

Seats are up for grabs in all 20 district council wards, with at least four candidates (Labour, Conservative, Lib Dem and Green) standing in each.

The United Kingdon Independence Party is standing in Park Street and Verulam, while Danny Seabrook of the British National Party is vying for London Colney.

The count will begin at 1pm at Batchwood Hall.

The Review is at the polling station bringing you full coverage of the count and result.