Voters across Sefton will be going to the polls today (Thursday) to decide who they want to represent them and their communities.
There has already been a fair bit of political drama in the borough before these crucial local elections, with the formation of a new breakaway independent party. Five Sefton councillors - including a number of former Labour members - have formed the new Lydiate, Maghull, Aintree and Lunt Community Independents group on the council.
The move was a blow to Labour who will be hoping not to suffer too many further setbacks as the votes are counted tonight. The group are expected to retain power but will be wary in a few areas.
It will also be interesting to see the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats do battle in Southport again. Last year's elections saw the Tories take two Lib Dem scalps to tie level with them as lead opposition groups.
Voting for Sefton's local elections takes place across the borough today, with polls closing at 10pm. Election counts will take place at Aintree Racecourse for Sefton Central and South Sefton wards and Dunes Leisure Centre in Southport for the Southport count.
We will have reporters at both counts in the borough. All the Sefton Council results will appear on our live election tool below as they are confirmed.
