The tally of candidate nominations offers some encouragement for the Conservatives, with the low number from Reform UK. But an anti-Conservative electoral pact in Waverley may be a source of anxiety.
It is easy to conclude that the Conservatives were the biggest losers. The question of who won is more complicated.
York, Derby High Peak, Gravesham, Amber Valley, and Basildon are among the councils where the Tories face losing power.
A 58 per cent rise in the tax over the last two decades should serve as a warning against further hikes.