LABOUR has emerged victorious in Leeds North West.

The party's Alex Sobel has defeated Liberal Democrat Greg Mulholland, who had held the seat - which includes Otley, Pool-in-Wharfedale and Bramhope - for 12 years by taking 20,416 votes to secure a 4,224 majority.

The seat, which includes the student heartland of Headingley, had seen the biggest rise in the number of newly registered voters of the whole campaign - a 16 per cent increase taking the total of eligible voters to 68,152.

Mr Sobel's success builds on the gains he made for Labour in 2015 when he cut Mr Mulholland's majority to 2,907, and represents a 7.9 per cent swing to Labour.

The full results were Alex Sobel, Labour - 20,416 votes; Greg Mulholland, Liberal Democrats - 16,192; Alan Lamb, Conservative - 9,097; Martin Hemingway, Green - 582.

Tweeting shortly after the declaration, Mr Sobel said: "Massive thanks to all the people of Leeds North West. I won’t let you down."

Mr Mulholland, meanwhile, posted: "Night night all, it's been an honour and privilege."

Many were quick to express their delight at the Labour win online.

Writing on the Otley - Our Town Facebook page, Amy Wilson said: "Wonderful, wonderful news.

"Congratulations to the local Labour party on a positive local campaign."

Ruth Blackwell said: "Congratulations. A great local team, hard work and a positive campaign."

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Others, though, expressed their appreciation for Mr Mulholland's service - and sadness at his defeat.

Jeannie Aked said: "Absolutely gutted that we've lost Greg, a man of great integrity.

"Massive boots to be filled."

Emma Lucas addded: "I didn't want TM (Theresa May) to win so I'm glad Labour have had a big push.

"However, Greg has been so good for Otley and the people.

"I wish we could have kept him."

Mr Sobel’s camapaign was boosted by a visit from Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who was greeted by thousands of supporters at a rally in Hyde Park, Leeds.