BRIDGWATER will again be represented by a Conservative member of parliament, as Ashley Fox has been elected the new constituency's MP.

Despite the latest YouGov polls predicting a Labour gain, the Conservatives have retained the seat, which now - due to boundary changes to the constituency -includes Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge, as well as other surrounding areas.

The full results are as follows:

  • Pele Barnes (Independent) 334
  • William Fagg (Reform UK) 8,913
  • Ashley Fox (Conservative) 12,281
  • Charles Graham (Green) 1,720
  • Leigh Redman (Labour) 10,932
  • Claire Sully (Lib Dem) 5,781
  • Gregory Tanner (Workers Party of Great Britain) 168

Speaking to the Mercury, Mr Fox said he felt that it was his personal interaction with constituents whilst campaigning which helped him to edge the result.

Mr Fox revealed he was 'cautiously confident' prior to the result being announced.Mr Fox revealed he was 'cautiously confident' prior to the result being announced. (Image: Jamie Grover, Newsquest)

"From the moment I was selected as a candidate, I've tried to knock on as many doors and speak to as many people as I can," he said.

"We've spoken to around 10,000 people - I think that personal interaction has helped."

Speaking on his priorities as MP, Mr Fox said he hopes to improve the policing of crime and antisocial behaviour in the constituency, particularly 'illegal encampments' which have caused disruption in recent months.

He added that he wants to stand up for and improve high streets in Bridgwater, as well as Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge, and pledged to support the NHS and help his constituents to get both dentist and doctor's appointments.Ashley Fox gives his winners' speech after being elected Bridgwater's MP.Ashley Fox gives his winner's speech after being elected Bridgwater's MP. (Image: Jamie Grover, Newsquest)

When asked about the challenges of working with what exit polls predict to be a Labour government, Mr Fox explained that a lot of collaborative work goes on behind the scenes in parliament.

"I'm going to represent all constituents to the best of my abilities, whether they voted for me or not," he said.

"I know that there are good people on the Labour and Lib Dem benches, and I will work with them for the people of Bridgwater."