Carla Denyer is the new MP for Bristol Central
The Green Party has made history by winning the Bristol Central constituency from Labour.
The Greens have only ever won in one seat before – Brighton Pavilion – where Caroline Lucas was the MP for 14 years.
In winning, party co-leader Carla Denyer has unseated the shadow culture secretary Thangam Debonnaire.
Denyer won a stonking majority of more than 10,000, picking up 56.6% of the vote to Debbonaire’s 32.6%.
Speaking following the result, Denyer said: “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who voted Green. I’m incredibly grateful that you put your trust in me.
“And to everyone who gave their vote to someone else this time – I’m ready to listen and work hard for you too.
“Thanks to those that have been part of this journey. Green Party volunteers, staff, my councillor colleagues past and present, and council staff including those running the election. It has been a privilege to work with you in the weeks, months and years leading up to today.
“Thank you too, and well done, to all the candidates who put themselves out there – even though we don’t agree on every policy, I recognise the dedication, commitment and sometimes sacrifice you put into this important part of democratic process.
“And finally, thank you to Thangam for your nine years as a brilliant, hard-working constituency MP. I will do my best to continue to help the people of Bristol Central as well as you have done.
“This incredible city has long had my heart. And the warmth and positivity I have felt during this campaign has been truly humbling. I feel so privileged to have this opportunity to serve you and to ensure that the real hope that inspired so many people to vote Green is represented in Parliament.”
The Greens are celebrating their best ever general election results, with their vote share up across the country.
Chris Jarvis is head of strategy and development at Left Foot Forward
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