THE future is bright for the Liberal Democrats as they celebrate their best by election result against the Conservatives in 20 years, according to party leader Tim Farron.

The Liberal Democrats came second in the Witney by-election, securing 30 per cent of the vote, up from just over six per cent.

Lib Dem candidate Liz Leffman polled 11, 611 votes, reducing the Tory majority to 45 percent from 60, as Conservative candidate took over from ex-PM David Cameron as MP for the constituency.

Mr Farron said: "I am really encouraged. It's really positive. It is great for British politics as well.

"It can seem at times that the Tories are unopposed because of what is happening to Labour. The country needs a strong moderate party in opposition and we would like to be that.

"We need a good opposition otherwise the big parties get complacent and make more mistakes.

"People are concerned about similar issues in Witney as they are in Westmorland. They are concerned about health care and social care for older people.

"This feels like a return for the Liberal Democrats. It's the best result we've had against the Conservatives in a by-election for 20 years.

"Every week we win more seats. Since May we have gained 21 seats in by elections. No other major party has gained a single one."