The Election count at the Princes Theatre in the Town Hall in Clacton. (Image: Archant)
Douglas Carswell has been re-elected as MP for Clacton, giving UKIP their first seat in the House of Commons.
Here we have live coverage brought to you direct from the election count courtesy of political reporter Annabelle Dickson and Essex reporter Will Lodge as well as reaction from Paul Geater.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here