Lib Dems slash Labour vote

10.43.30am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 6th May 2005

"Tunbridge Wells residents overwhelmingly rejected Labour and turned to Liberal Democrats"

Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats were celebrating last night after seeing their rise to a clear second place in the General Election. Laura Murphy, Parliamentary Candidate said, "We significantly increased our vote from the last General Election and Labour came a poor third."

She added, " We now have a strong team and some excellent candidates and will make considerable gains in the Borough elections next year."

The County candidates were also pleased with their results. Margeurita Morgan, candidate for Tunbridge Wells north said, "The Liberal Democrat group have succeeded this year in a hard fought campaign and are proud to have made real inroads into the Conservative majority. Next time we will be In strong position to challenge this Tunbridge Wells County Council seat."

Lorraine Braam, for Tunbridge Wells Rural said of her challenge, "I am pleased with the level of support shown in the area and hope this will be a springboard for future gains in the rural part of the Borough."

Chris Gilmore, Tunbridge Wells West, commented, The result shows a united Liberal Democrat representation in an area is valued. I want to thank Rusthall residents for their support and as a Borough Councillor I will continue to strive on their behalf."

Jamie Johnson, who put up a strong fight in Tunbridge Wells South said, "I am very pleased with the result. It is very encouraging for the future and particularly so for the Borough elections next year."

David Neve, who so nearly took Tunbridge Wells East said, "It was a hard fought, but fair campaign. I will be back."

The full results are shown below.

General Election

Conservative 21,803

Liberal Democrat 11,095

Labour 8,736

UKIP 1,568

T Wells North

Conservative 3,269

Liberal Democrat 2,285

Labour 2,006

Green 601

T Wells South

Conservative 4,354

Liberal Democrat 2,375

Labour 1,965

Green 647

T Wells West

Conservative 4,424

Liberal Democrat 2,872

Green 951

T Wells Rural East

Conservative 5,179

Liberal Democrat 2,204

Labour 1,737

Green 579

T Wells East

Conservative 3,128

Liberal Democrat 2,893

Labour 1,394

Green 481