At around 5:30 am today, it was announced I have been elected Mid Derbyshire’s member of parliament. Here is the speech I gave in Derby Arena following the count: After 14 years of decline, today our great country has a fresh start. A fresh start with opportunity for everyone. Opportunity to get ahead in life. Opportunity for better health. And a fresh impetus for the future of the environment, forged in the white heat of a green industrial revolution. I have spoken to thousands of people throughout this campaign. Their stories have inspired me to fight for the change they desperately need. I have spoken often about the importance of the arts, the wellspring of who we are. I will always fight for this – it is who I am. To govern is to serve – and service of the people of Mid Derbyshire will be my touchstone everyday whether you voted for me or not. I want to thank the staff who have administered the election. I will always value your public service. I also want to thank the other candidates. They have my best wishes for their future endeavours. I am eternally grateful to the generous volunteers who have supported Labour’s campaign in Mid Derbyshire. There are too many to mention, but I would like to pay particular thanks to my agent, James Butler, and to Councillor Tracey Hill who has been a stalwart of our campaign. I also want to thank my family and friends. Those who seek to serve politically know it sometimes comes at the expense of our loved ones – but I know those who know me will see that, together, we have achieved something remarkable for people who need change. I pledge to do my utmost to represent the people of Mid Derbyshire’s interests, and fight for the opportunities they deserve. The hard work begins now.