TIM Farron has delivered his first speech as Liberal Democrat Party Leader to a rapturous reception at the Islington Assembly Hall.

Just hours earlier, the Westmorland and Lonsdale MP learned that he had defeated Norman Lamb by 19,137 votes to 14,760 to become the new leader and cement his position as the highest profile MP in his constituency's history.

The Milnthorpe-based politician said he wants to lead a 'fightback' that will see 'hundreds' more Lib Dem councillors across the country.

He proclaimed that he expects Lib Dems to unite and seek victory 'ward by ward, seat by seat, council by council' and genuinely believes the party can challenge for dominance at the 2020 General Election.

Gazette reporter Patrick Christys was embedded with Mr Farron's team throughout the day and was with the now party leader when he received a call at 4.30pm to say that he had won.

Speaking exclusively to the Gazette immediately after learning the result, the 45-year-old said: "I'm genuinely honoured and very humbled. This is a big deal. It is a wonderful honour to be elected leader of the party I joined as a 16-year-old.

"There are real challenges ahead but we have shown in Westmorland how we can succeed and we want to make a difference for people all over the country.

"It will be a great responsibility and I will work tirelessly to fight for liberal values.

"Westmorland will always be my home and will remain my top priority.

"I will still be at my surgery on Saturday morning!

"When I was first elected in 2005 I said that I would be Westmorland's man in Westminster and never the other way around and this will never, ever change.

"I will keep working to bring jobs, investment and improve local services and I will use this national platform to do that."

Neighbouring Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock said: "Many congratulations to Tim on winning the leadership of his party.

"I know he will apply his characteristic energy and dedication to the national role and I wish him well for the future."

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