The prospect of a sweeping Conservative General Election victory increased this morning after early local election results showed Labour suffering losses across the country and Ukip's vote share collapsing.

Theresa May's party has made significant gains in Wales and England, just weeks before the country goes to the polls to decide whether she or Jeremy Corbyn takes the keys to Number 10.

Ukip faces being wiped out at the ballot box after failing to hold onto a single seat at the local elections, with the Tories picking up support - a trend which would boost Mrs May's chances of strengthening her grip on power on June 8.