 Despite the optimism for the Conservatives in seat and council gains, their share of the vote at 38% was 6% down on 2008.That said, they had a clear 10% lead over the Liberal Democrats who achieved a respectable second place on 28%.Labour, taking the blame in government from a worsening economic climate, soaring unemployment and the expenses scandal, lost all of its councils, with some authorities being swept clear of any Labour councillors at all.