Lib Dems Welcome Sweeping Victory

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 2nd May 2003

The Liberal Democrats are celebrating their widespread gains across the East of England today. The taking of outright control in North Norfolk, Uttlesford and Watford showed that the Liberal Democrats can and do win anywhere in the East of England.

Commenting on the results, Lib Dem Euro MP Andrew Duff said:

"Yesterday's results across the region show that the Lib Dems are poised to take a second East of England seat in the European Parliament next year. I look forward to being joined in Brussels by Chris White.

"At local, national and European level, the Liberal Democrats are now making all the difference. We will continue to face up boldly to the challenges that lie ahead and to offer a programme of radical reform coupled with dedicated public service."

Best results in the region included vastly strengthening our position on South Norfolk, Norwich, Cambridge and Three Rivers Districts. Sweeping gains were made in places as diverse as urban Luton and rural Babergh (South Suffolk). Where we lost control it was usually by a handful of votes in a very few wards.