LABOUR held on to the City of Durham, albeit with a much reduced majority, as they saw off a strong Liberal Democrat challenge for the constituency.
Newly-elected MP Roberta Blackman Woods was "absolutely delighted" with the result - but saw the Labour majority slashed from 13,400 to just 3,274 in a seat that was the Liberal Democrats' top target in the North-East.
Ms Blackman Woods said: "We campaigned on our record in Government and people judged us on that."
Defeated Lib Dem candidate Carol Woods said: "I am disappointed, but this is probably one of the biggest swings of the night to any party."
Conservative Ben Rogers was widely praised and looks a likely candidate for a more winnable seat. Tony Martin - the Veritas candidate known as the Durham Cobbler - polled a respectable tally.
FULL RESULT
Blackman Woods, Roberta
(Lab) - 20,929
Martin, Tony (Veritas) - 1,603
Rogers, Ben (Cons) - 4,179
Woods, Carol (Lib Dem) - 17,65
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article