IPSWICH has a new MP today as Conservative Ben Gummer beat Chris Mole by just over 2,000 votes after a marathon count.
Mr Gummer becomes the town’s third Tory MP since the war – and has the largest majority of any Conservative victor ever in the town.
After winning the seat he pledged to continue to take a major role in the fight to protect and develop the hospital.
He said: “I shall work hard to ensure that we get a hospital foundation trust here in Ipswich and to ensure that health services here are expanded in future years.”
Mr Gummer also pledged to work hard to improve infrastructure around the town – and to improve schools in Ipswich.
Fighting back the tears as he left the Corn Exchange, Mr Mole pledged that the Labour Party would continue to work for the people of the town.
He said: “I have had the great privilege to have represented this town for nine years in the House of Commons. Labour will be back in Ipswich and will continue to represent all those who need it during what may be difficult times ahead.”
Full result from Ipswich:
Dennis Boater BNP 1,270
Kim Christophi - Christian Party 149
Mark Dyson - Lib Dem 8,556
Timothy Glover - Green 775
Ben Gummer - Con 18,371
Chris Mole - Lab 16,292
Chris Streatfield - UKIP 1,365
Peter Turtill - Ind 93
Sally Wainman - Ind 70
Majority: 2,079
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