Stuart Clarkson

10:00am - 2:00pm

Email the studio

Ashe

Stop the Wedding

Listen Live Podcasts

Former Ermysted's pupil wins election by just 20 votes in Essex

Friday, 5 July 2024 at 04:05

Richard Holden (right) with Robbie Moore during a visit to Steeton in November 2023

Tory Party chairman Richard Holden - who went to school in Skipton - has won himself a new parliamentary seat in Basildon and Billericay with a majority of just 20 votes.

Mr Holden was first elected as an MP in the 2019 general election in North West Durham,

Boundary changes mean that seat no longer exists, so he instead stood for election in the previously safe Conservative seat of Basildon and Billericay in Essex - which previously had a majority of around 20,000.

After two re-counts overnight, he won the seat by just 20 votes, so returns to parliament as a Tory MP for a second time.

He polled 12,905 votes, with the Labour candidate just behind on 12,885. Reform UK recevied 11,354 votes in the constituency.

Richard Holden attended Skipton's Ermysted's Grammar School between 1996 and 2001.

He spent several years as a Conservative Party press officer and special adviser before being elected to parliament in December 2019.

He went on to become a Transport Minister under Rishi Sunak and subsequently became Conservative Party Chairman in November 2023.

More from Local news

New Skipton restaurant announces opening date

A new restaurant in Skipton has announced it will officially open its doors on Saturday 7th November.
New Halloween escape room challenge launches at Skipton attraction

A new Halloween-themed escape room challenge has launched at The Hidden Castle in Skipton for the October half-term holidays.
The Chase star stuns punters with surprise appearance at Skipton pub

TV quiz star Jenny Ryan swapped The Chase studio for a Skipton pub as she hosted a special quiz for members of Skipton Building Society.
Ilkley group sponsors new football kit for Skipton girls' team

Skipton Juniors Under 16 Girls have received a brand-new football kit thanks to sponsorship from Soroptimist International Ilkley.
Heritage railway celebrates 58 years since historic Skipton meeting

A heritage railway near Skipton has celebrated its 58th anniversary with a special event recognising the volunteers who have helped preserve its history.
Concerns over North Yorkshire Council’s net zero progress as vehicle emissions rise

North Yorkshire Council is facing criticism over its slow progress towards net zero after new figures revealed a rise in emissions from its vehicle fleet.
Skipton and Ripon MP encourages nominations for rural community awards

Residents across Skipton and the surrounding area are being encouraged to nominate local businesses and community champions for the Countryside Alliance Awards 2027.
North Yorkshire councillors warn planning changes will weaken local voices

Councillors in North Yorkshire have warned that government changes to the planning system will leave communities with less say over new developments.
£1million funding boost announced for Keighley businesses

A new £1million funding package has been launched to help businesses in Keighley expand and create jobs.
Cowling businesswoman shortlisted for three national awards

The founder of a Yorkshire women's health brand has been shortlisted for three national business awards.
Skipton MP raises concerns over treatment of rural postman

Skipton and Ripon MP Julian Smith has raised concerns about the treatment of a local postman who helped deliver a parish magazine.
Skipton MP calls for action following rise in unemployment benefit claims

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith has called for Government action after a rise in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits across his constituency.
Space technology firm reveals why it chose Keighley for £9m space centre

The boss of an International space business has revealed why they chose Keighley for a £9m investment in space technology.
Record-breaking Glitter Ball raises over £280,000 for children's hospice

A charity ball at Rudding Park has raised more than £280,000 for Martin House children’s hospice – the highest total in the event’s history.
New route announced for Great Skipton Santa Fun Run

Organisers of the Great Skipton Santa Fun Run have announced a new 5K route for this year’s event.
New fines proposed to tackle illegal tobacco and vape sales in North Yorkshire

Businesses selling tobacco and vapes illegally could face fixed penalty notices under proposals being considered by North Yorkshire Council.
North Yorkshire councillors could receive 2.6 per cent allowance rise

North Yorkshire councillors could see their annual basic allowance rise to £18,431 under proposals due to go before the council.
Plans for new multi-billion pound approach to care services

Care services across North Yorkshire could be transformed under new proposals worth an estimated £3.5 billion over seven years.
Two Skipton photographers reach finals of prestigious wedding awards

Two wedding photographers from Skipton have been named regional finalists in the Wedding Industry Awards 2027.
Ryanair announce new flights from Leeds Bradford Airport

Ryanair has announced four new routes from Leeds Bradford Airport for summer 2027.