Newport East constituency results

John Griffiths (Labour) (pictured) 7,621, Matthew Evans (Conservative) 4,157, Ed Townsend (Liberal Democrat) 2,768, Mohammad Asghar (Plaid Cymru ) 1,555, Neal Reynolds (UK Independence Party) 987

Majority 3,464, Majority 1999 5,111(Labour), Swing . . . . . . . . .3% Lab to Con, Turnout 30.6%

A TOUGH campaign had left John Griffiths half a stone lighter but it also returned him to the Assembly as a clear winner.

Mr Griffiths held the seat for Labour, taking 4,157 votes although at 17,212, the overall voter turnout for Newport East was down 5% on 1999.

He said: 'I am very pleased to be returned as the member for Newport East, I will do my best and to continue to work hard for all the people in the area.

'I am concerned at the lower turnout but I think if Labour can win a majority tonight we will be able to deliver a more radical agenda that will engage the electorate.

'The first four years were crucial for creating a stable government and beginning to improve the quality of life for people in Wales. The challenge now is to build on those foundations and for Labour to pursue a socialist agenda and deliver equality and opportunity for all.'

An exhausted Mr Griffiths said he was too tired to celebrate with a party. 'It's been a very tough campaign, I think I'll be straight home to bed.' The runner-up, Conservative Matthew Evans, polled 4,157. He said that the low turn out was 'a victory for apathy'. He said he was determined to stand again. 'In the words of Arnie Schwarzenegger 'I'll be back'.'