JULIE Cooper has turned the tables on Liberal Democrat arch-rival Gordon Birtwistle and given Labour something to smile about.

The former council leader regained the seat for the party with a solid display which saw her bag 14,931 votes and a 3,244 majority.

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The new MP said: "It means a lot to me to represent my home town. It is a huge honour."

Her initial priority will be to boost Burnley's improving economy and tackle a range of social ills such as the need for food banks.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Mr Birtwistle said the national picture had not helped his cause but he took responsibility as the defeated candidate.

He added: "The people of Burnley decided that they wanted a change and that is a shame.

"I've left a strong legacy with the new train line, new business parks and hospital investment, of which I am proud."

 

Julie Cooper Labour 14,951
Gordon Birtwistle Liberal Democrat 11,707
Tom Commis UK Independence Party 6,864
Sarah Cockburn-Price Conservative 5,374
Mike Hargreaves Green 850


MAJORITY
3,244
(8.2%)
 

TURNOUT
61.6%
(39,746)

 

See all the action from the Counts in our General Election Gallery http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/photos/2015_photos/general_election_2015_results/