Sebastian Mann

Local democracy reporter for Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Havering @WFEcho @BBC. Ex-@LincsLive. "You don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.”

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

That’s it from me in Havering.

Reform has formed a majority of 39 - its first London council.

The previously incumbent HRA will stand as the opposition with eleven seats.

Thanks for following along!

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

And three more for REFORM, as they take Hylands and Harrow Lodge.

One more ward to go on a historic night here in Havering.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

I am live at the count for Havering Council in the 2026 local elections. The independent Havering Residents Association will be fending off a challenge in one of Reform’s biggest targets in London. I’ll be bringing you updates throughout the night.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

The Tory stronghold of St Edward’s is no more. All three seats WON by REFORM.

With two wards still to be declared, Reform commands 36 seats.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

The Tory stronghold of St Edward’s is no more. All three seats WON by REFORM.

With two wards still to be declared, Reform commands 36 seats.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

@davidandrewt Haha, very true. Going to blame my lack of sleep for that.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

REFORM HAS WON HAVERING COUNCIL

Victories in Squirrels Heath brings their total number of seats to 30 - three higher than what they need for a majority.

It is the first #Reform-led council in London.

Pictured is local group leader Keith Prince.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

A second HRA WIN in Rainham & Wennington as Sue Ospreay holds her seat.

She said she hopes Reform - which WON the other two seats - can indeed turn everything around.

#Reform is now one seat away from a majority.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

And the Tories lose grasp of Rush Green & Crowlands as REFORM WINS three more.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

Another REFORM WIN in Emerson Park. Two more HRA councillors have been knocked out the council chamber. More raucous cheers from the turquoise rosettes.

Reform is now six seats away from a majority, with little opposition so far.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

REFORM WINS Havering-Atte-Bower, held by the HRA and former Tory council leader Damian White. All three secured more than 2,000 votes.

It brings Reform’s total in the borough to 20.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

REFORM WINS three more seats in Gooshays, once a Labour stronghold.

Maybe the biggest win of the night: local group leader - and potentially the next council leader - Keith Prince AM has been reelected.

He says it is an “historic night” and predicts a Reform win.

[Sebastian Mann @arrasmann]

The HRA WINS its first seat in Hacton. REFORM WINS the other (it’s 14th).