Tory James Duddridge has retained his Rochford and Southend East seat - posting a healthy majority.

He increased his number of votes, posting 20,241, beating Labour into second as Ukip sank to a disappointing third.

The Green Party finished fourth and the Lib Dems, who finished third in 2010, lost their  deposit.

Mr Duddridge, who has been elected for a third term, said: "I pledge to assist every constituent regardless of how they voted.

"I'm delighted to have won and increased my vote."