The atmosphere at Croydon's election counts was a mix of celebration and commiseration, as captured by MyLondon photographer Facundo Arrizabalaga. Both the mayoral and ward counts were held at Fairfield Halls for the first time since its 2019 reopening, drawing over 300 staff and 286,933 voters—one of London's largest local election turnouts. Voter turnout stood at 41.02% for council wards and 40.99% for the mayoral contest.
Mayoral Re-election and Council Makeup
Incumbent Mayor Jason Perry secured a second term with 35,871 votes, just over 1,000 more than his closest rival, Labour's Rowenna Davis. Perry will continue to lead a council under no overall control, as Labour holds 30 seats, Conservatives 28, Greens 8, Liberal Democrats 2, and Reform UK 2—none reaching the 36-seat majority threshold. Perry emphasized stabilizing the borough's £1.4 billion debt as his top priority.
Key Moments and Candidates
Newly elected Broad Green Councillor Aba Amoah shared a moment with Returning Officer Elaine Jackson before the declaration. First-time candidate Michael Pusey MBE, standing for the Taking the Initiative Party, garnered 2,597 votes. Labour's Kola Agboola and Afuah Ahorgah-Dorfia celebrated victory in New Addington North, giving Labour full control of the ward. Reform UK's Scott Holman and Adam Kellett became Croydon's first Reform councillors, unseating Conservative incumbents in New Addington South.
Former Conservative MP Andrew Pelling failed in his bid as a Liberal Democrat candidate in Shirley North, marking his 19th electoral contest. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp supported Conservative candidates. Green Party members awaited results, and the party swept all three seats in Fairfield ward. Labour's Rowenna Davis addressed the theatre after conceding the mayoral race, noting it was "always going to be close."
Behind the Scenes
Counting occurred across multiple rooms at Fairfield Halls, with staff using felt-tip pens to update an interactive election map. Candidates and activists experienced tension, camaraderie, and relief. The final declaration came just before 5pm on Saturday, May 9, confirming the new political landscape. Photos also captured celebrations at The George Wetherspoons, where Holman marked his victory.
Among the 46 images are shots of re-elected councillors like Margaret Bird, Jack Barwell, and Ellily Ponnuthurai, as well as scenes of anxious anticipation and joyful embraces. The gallery reflects the full spectrum of emotions that define local democracy.
