CONSERVATIVE Neil Carmichael has been re-elected as Stroud MP with a vastly increased majority over his Labour rival David Drew.

Mr Carmichael polled 27,813 votes compared to Mr Drew’s 22,947.

His majority of 4,866 has increased by just over 3,500 since 2010 when he won by just 1,299.

After thanking his family, Mr Drew announced his resignation, saying it was time for someone younger to take over.

The turnout was 75 per cent turnout with 61,018 votes cast.

Ukip's Caroline Stephens came third with 4,848 votes with Green Party candidate Sarah Lunnon in fourth place with 2,779 Lib Dem Adrian Walker-Smith polled 2,086, putting him in fifth place. Rich Wilson (independent - MyStroudMP) received 246 votes while David Michael (independent - Free Public Transport Party) took 100 votes.

Speaking to the SNJ last night, Mr Carmichael said: "I'm absolutely delighted that I’ve won again with such a large majority. I thought it would be closer than it was so I am relieved."

He said he thoroughly enjoyed the campaign and thought David Drew's decision to step down was right.

The count for the constituency was announced just after 4am.