PERHAPS the evening's biggest shock came in the second-to-last declared result when young Conservative Danny Nicklen ousted labour stalwart Gordon Gambier.

The former borough youth MP was backed by a well-oiled election machine that took the lion's share of one of the day's biggest turnouts.

The ambitious young Tory, whose declared aim is to be an MP, polled more than 1,000 votes.

He said: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to all the people who worked so hard trudging the streets with me and I'd also like to thank the people of Stanford East and Corringham Town for giving me a chance."

Mr Gambier was in a sombre mood afterwards, but sportingly congratulated his young opponent, saying: "I'd like to say that it has been a fair fight, I'd also like to congratulate Danny Nicklen. He won it fair and square.

"Can I take this opportunity to thank all my supporters, I am sorry I let you all down but I did do my very best.

"I have enjoyed the last four years as your representative and will miss the challenges you gave me.

"I have made many friends in those years and appreciated your support. We laughed together and I will not forget you. C'est la vie."

When asked if he would stand again he said: "Who knows?"

Result:

Danny Nicklen (Con)1,069

Gordon Gambier (Lab) 949

Danny Brown (BNP)344

Dave Amis (Ind Working Class Assn) 98

Maj 120

Con gain from Labour

Turnout 38%