THE leader of Barnsley Council Sir Steve Houghton admits the current situation is 'grim' and that there are going to be 'significant changes' at the council - but said 'it isn't over until it's over'.

The count is currently taking place at the Barnsley Metrodome and, although there is still a long way to go, the general consensus is that Reform are likely to make big gains in the town.

Council leader Sir Steve told the Chronicle: "The general feeling is grim.

"We've seen all the election results around the country.

"So we would have to really go against the tide to succeed here in Barnsley.

"But it ain't over till it's over.

"And all the boxes are counting and some seem quite close.

"So we'll have to wait and see how they turn out."

He admits there's going to be some significant change on the council.

"What clearly is there's going to be some significant change on the council," he added.

"It's clearly a disappointment after all the fantastic work we've done in Barnsley.

"But it's not a shock because this has been coming for quite a while.

"Not just in Barnsley but across the country.

"So we knew we would have some serious challenges here with the mood music against the Prime Minister and the government.

"So yeah, obviously disappointing - but let's wait and see what the final outcome is."