JANE DODDS has been confirmed as the new MP for Brecon and Radnorshire after a closer than expected by-election victory.
Ms Dodds had just 1,425 more votes than Conservative Chris Davies whose conviction over false expenses claims triggered a recall petition that led to the by-election.
It appeared the decision by Plaid Cymru which polled 1,299 votes in the 2017 election, proved crucial to the Lib Dem victory. Plaid and the Green Party didn't field candidates to support the Lib Dems as remain party.
There was confusion at the declaration stage as the High Sherif of Powys only read out the totals in Welsh and his poor pronunciation meant even Welsh speakers were unable to understand his announcements.
Lib Dem Ms Dodds however collected 13,826 votes with Mr Davies amassing 12,401.
Ms Dodds was accompanied at the count by Lib Dem MP Ed Davey.
Labour’s vote collapsed, from more than 7,000 in 2017, to just 1,680 which may have proved crucial in the Lib Dem victory.
Brexit Party’s Des Parkinson finished in third with 3,331 and the Monster Raving Loony candidate Lady Lily the Pink got 334 defeating UKIP’s Liz Phillips, who finished sixth, with just 242 votes.