Friday proved to be a bitter-sweet day for the SNP in Moray.
In an attempt to gain an overall majority, their strategy of standing two candidates in each of the eight wards has backfired.
Although the party ended up with the same number of councillors as they had going into the election, three seeking re-election were deposed by their running-mates.
Margo Howe has replaced Anita McDonald in Fochabers Lhanbryde, and in Forres Aaron McLean is in and Irene Ogilvie is out.
The biggest shock of the day was the announcement that David Stewart - recently nominated for Councillor of the Year for his efforts in retaining RAF Lossiemouth - failed to retain his seat while Carolle Ralph was elected.
In Elgin success for Patsy Gowans in Elgin North, was cancelled out by John Sharp losing his seat to Tory James Allan.
