The Conservative control of Wycombe District Council has been strengthened after two independent councillors agreed to defect to the Tories.

Risborough councillors, Gary Hall and Alan Turner, have joined the leading party – less than a year after they were voted for as independents.

49 out of 60 WDC councillors now represent the Conservatives, with six Labour councillors, three East Wycombe Independents and one Lib Dem and one Ukip councillor making up the opposition.

The unexpected move now means that the three councillors representing The Risboroughs ward are all Conservatives, allowing them to “fully represent” residents.

WDC leader, Cllr Katrina Wood, said: “I am delighted to welcome councillor Hall and Turner to this side of the chamber.

“Having them as part of the ruling Conservatives means that they can fully represent the people of The Risboroughs ward.

“We are excited that our influence can reach across the whole of the district and residents can benefit from our programme of district-wide improvements."

Cllr Hall and Turner join existing Conservative councillor, David Knights, in representing the people of Monks Risborough and Princes Risborough, Askett and Whiteleaf.

Councillor Knights said, "I am so pleased to welcome Gary and Alan to the local party. Working together as Conservatives at WDC, we are able to ensure the needs and concerns of our local residents and companies are fully represented.

“I very much look forward to working together."