LIBERAL Democrat Annette Brooke stood firm in preventing a Tory bluewash in Dorset but had to resist an almighty Conservative surge in Mid-Dorset and North Poole.
On a night of almost unbearable tension at Poole Lighthouse, Mrs Brooke edged Nick King by just 269 votes.
A recount looked the most likely outcome as the ballot bundles were rechecked and the Lib Dems watched their 5,000-vote majority crumbling.
But Mrs Brooke breathed a deep sigh of relief when the result was finally agreed and announced shortly before 5am.
Speaking straight after the result, the Lib Dem MP said: “It is so important to keep this foothold in Dorset.
“It was very close and the boundary changes made this year an unknown quantity.”
During her victory Mrs Brooke called for “repair of a broken voting system”.
This election marks a third successive victory for Mrs Brooke in the Mid-Dorset and North Poole seat.
Disappointed Conservative candidate Mr King retained an admirably positive outlook despite the narrow defeat.
He said: “Three years ago I would never have dreamt of getting that close.
“Real disappointment would have been not cutting the majority.
“I’m very proud and delighted for everyone who has worked so hard.”
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