Treasury minister Priti Patel has held the Witham seat for the Conservatives – and extended her majority.

Ms Patel had a majority of 15,196 in 2010, but managed to extend this by more than 4,000 votes.

As in the neighbouring Braintree constituency UKIP claimed second place above Labour, with just 102 votes separating second and third spot in Witham.

Ms Patel said: “It has been a great privilege to represent Witham since 2010 and an honour to be re-elected with a larger majority. I am grateful to voters in Witham for their support and will continue to be a strong voice for the whole of the constituency and every one of my constituents regardless of how they voted.

“Over the last five years, unemployment has fallen in Witham as more people have come off of benefits and into work. More pupils are being taught in outstanding schools, the NHS is receiving new investment and the Conservatives have given commitments to upgrade the A12 and invest in improving rail services.

“As Witham’s MP, I will continue to support families and communities throughout the constituency, campaign for investment in our infrastructure and services, and back local businesses as they create more local jobs.”

Commenting on the national results she added: “Across the country voters have decided they want this country to continue to be governed by the Conservatives and have backed our long term economic plan, which has delivered record numbers of jobs, growth in the economy and security for hard working families.

“The British people have once again rejected Labour and their plans to wreck the economy with high taxes and more borrowing.”

Witham: Priti Patel (C) 27,123, Garry Cockrill (UKIP) 7,569, John Clarke (L) 7,467, Jo Hayes (LD) 2,891, James Abbott (Gn) 2,038, Doreen Scrimshaw (CPA) 80. Maj: 19,554. Turnout: 70.6%. No change