Sinn Fein’s Michelle Gildernew has been re-elected as MP for Fermanagh South Tyrone, denying the UUP’s Tom Elliott a return to Westminster.
It was certainly another night of drama in Fermanagh South Tyrone (FST). The constituency is famous for its closely run parliamentary races, and this year it was true to form. For much of the count throughout the night at the Omagh Leisure Centre it was too close to call between the two candidates.
With just 62 votes separating Ms Gildernew and Mr Elliott, a recount was ordered in the early hours of this morning.
After an anxious wait, it was announced Ms Gildernew had defeated Mr Elliott by just 57 votes. Following the checking of doubtful votes, Mr Elliott conceded defeat.
Ms Gildernew crossed the line with 21,986 votes, while Mr Elliott came second with 21,929 votes.
In her acceptance speech Ms Gildernew congratulated her fellow FST candidates, particularly Mr Elliott.
“I am delighted to be on the right side of it this time. As we all know, it is always close in Fermanagh South Tyrone and we like to keep you all tantalised,” she said. “As we know this constituency is always hard fought and tightly contested.”
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