Paris elects first female mayor

France's governing Socialists have suffered big losses in municipal elections, with the opposition UMP claiming victory, and the far right celebrating further gains.

UMP leader Jean-Francois Cope hailed what he called a "blue wave" of support for his centre-right party.

The far-right National Front was heading for victory in up to seven towns, according to early results.

In Paris, which has had a Socialist mayor since 2001, Socialist candidate Anne Hidalgo claimed victory over her UMP rival.

Ms Hidalgo is the first female mayor ever elected in Paris.