There were no big reactions at the Metrodome in Barnsley on Friday, not even when it became apparent Reform had taken control of the council.
Despite repeated requests, Reform has declined to put any of its Barnsley candidates forward for interview.
Sir Steve, who has led Barnsley Council for 30 years, and who is one of the longest serving Labour councillors in the country, was one of the few to hold his seat.
He said he was “absolutely gutted” to see Labour colleagues lose, but said the defeat had not come as a surprise.