Thank You Folkestone and Hythe: General Election Result 2019

The 2019 General Election for Folkestone and Hythe result is in.

• Simon Bishop (Liberal Democrats - To Stop Brexit): 5,755 (9.9%, +2.7%)
• Henry Bolton (Independent): 576
• Damian Collins (Conservative): 35,483 (60.9%, +6.3%)
• Laura Davison (Labour): 14,146 (24.3%, -4.2%)
• Rohen Kapur (YPP): 80
• Colin Menniss (Social Democratic): 190
• Andy Thomas (Socialist): 69
• Georgina Trelour (Green Party): 2,706 (4.6%, +0.4%)
• Turnout 67.14%, spolit papers 260

The Liberal Democrats have moved forward, boosting our vote by a third, increasing from 7.2% in 2017 to 9.9% on 12th December. Nationally, although we have seen some fantastic gains in Richmond Park, St Albans and North East Fife, it seems that despite winning over a million more votes than in 2017 we will win eleven seats - a net loss of one.

In a message to Liberal Democrat members and supporters across Folkestone and Hythe, Liberal Democrat candidate Simon Bishop said:

"Our members have all been absolutely incredible and should be very proud that you've stood up for what you believe in - and acted, whether it be leafleting, telephone canvassing, donating, postering, stakeboarding, cheerleading... and so much more.

"The election was officially called on Oct 31st and we launched Nov 6th in Chichester Hall. We've been going flat-out since.

"Out of all the ways people have helped throughout the campaign, I must highlight the 10,000s of leaflets delivered. It has been extraordinary. Day-in, day-out, through rain, wind and darkness, you have pounded the streets. I haven't heard a single complaint. The energy levels never wavered.

"I think my core message - that I love Folkestone and Hythe, I care, I have the experience but most importantly will be a different type of politician, acting with decency and integrity has gone down extremely well, as has the purposeful use of words like 'care', 'compassion' and 'love'. It gives me real hope that we can in time counter the lies, selfishness and division that dominates our politics today.

"Together, we have re-energised the Folkestone and Hythe Liberal Democrats, ready to build for the future. We've increased our vote significantly, helped the Party and most importantly our amazing country by contributing to a fantastic #stopBrexit protest vote. And we had some fun along the way too!

"It has been an absolute privilege being your candidate. You are all extraordinary people."