In the first General Election since a boundary review saw Hitchin become a new constituency, voters have elected Labour's Alistair Strathern - after seven years with Conservative's Bim Afolami in the seat. 

Ahead of a hearty celebration from Labour supporters, strong applause was given to Mr Afolami, who came second in the polls. 

The former MP represented Hitchin & Harpenden, a seat which was split following a boundary review.

Another new seat as a result of the boundary review, Harpenden & Berkhamsted, was taken by Liberal Democrat Victoria Collins.

Alistair Strathern said in his speech: "Thanks to Bim. Having gone through a by-election that was closely fought and got quickly very personal I know how hard it can be sometimes to stay above the grate. 

"But throughout this whole campaign, it has been clean, it's been focused on issues and it's been testament to the great character Bim's showed.

"I feel very lucky to have got to know a lot of him throughout the contest and I feel very fortunate to be following in his footsteps.

"I'm so lucky and grateful that people right across our new constituency put their faith in me. I look forward to working hard."

Bim Afolami Bim Afolami said: "We should take this result, like so many others around the country, very seriously indeed.

"I'd like to finish by thanking the people of Hitchin for the most wonderful six and a half, coming up to seven years, as their Member of Parliament. 

"It's been a ride, I've loved it. Maybe one day I'll be back, maybe I won't. But, I want to say thank you for all you've done for me. I've learned so much from you."

The final result in Hitchin was:

Hitchin result

  • Bim Afolami, Conservative - 14,958
  • Charles Bunker, Reform UK - 6,760
  • Sid Cordle, Christian Peoples Alliance - 181
  • Will Lavin, Green - 2,631
  • Chris Lucas, Lib Dem 4,913
  • Alistair Strathern, Labour - 23,067 - elected

Nationally, Labour has gained overall control of Parliament, while the Conservatives have made many losses, including Secretary of State for Defence and former Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps.