IT was supposed to be one of the tightest races in Eastleigh’s history.

But in the end the voters of the town have sent a jubilant Chris Huhne back to Westminster with a resounding victory and a muchincreased majority.

The Lib Dem Home Affairs spokesman received a three per cent swing from the Tories to record a majority of 3,864 over Conservative candidate Maria Hutchings.

He had gone into the contest having won the previous election by just 534 votes.

Mr Huhne said: “I’m absolutely delighted with the result.

“I never expected the majority to be as large as it was.

“I’ve worked very hard for the people of Eastleigh and it’s fantastic to see them repay me in this way."