ELECTION 2010 - Lib Dem praises the spirit of co-operation between rivals

Alistair at the Count

LIBERAL Democrat candidate Alistair Stevens was happy with the result, as he increased his party's share of the vote.

"It has been a fantastic day, a long day and a long campaign. It has been fascinating for me to watch and learn and grow into this position.

"I do think Andrew has worked incredibly hard. It has been a fantastic experience and the candidates have been friendly and co-operative with each other.

"On a personal note I would like to thank everybody who has helped me with very limited resources compared to some parties."

Earlier in the evening Cllr Stevens, who is a member of New Mills Town Council, said: "It has been unbelievable. It has been life-changing not just for me but for my family.

"Many people have come and joined the campaign politically since the TV debates. That been fantastic not just for ourselves and our party but I think for British politics."

He said the TV debates had helped attract the attention of younger people who had got on board with the election campaign.

In High Peak he said it had been a very fair campaign. "I don't think there has been any falling out. The candidates respect each other and I have made one or two good friends: Peter Allen (The Green Party candidate) is a good guy."

The campaign has also had an unexpected benefit for the New Mills man, who has shed a stone in weight - thanks to going out and delivering leaflets seven days week in the run up to the election.

"It has been good. We have not got out to everywhere simply because of resources.

"We were funded by ourselves and raised £5,000 against goodness knows how much the Tories had."

He said the High Peak had the potential to be a three-way marginal if the party could push forward significantly.

"I honestly believe, with the national support we are getting, people are realising how unfair this voting system is.