Read Gillian Keegan's victory speech in full

General Election Hustings......General election hustings at Chichester Cathedral providing an opportunity for the people of Chichester to question parliamentary candidates about key issues running up to polling day on December 12th. ......Pictured is Gillian Keegan (Conservative Candidate).......Chichester Cathedral Cloisters..........Picture: Liz Pearce ......LP191864

Here's what Gillian Keegan had to say following her re-election as Chichester's MP on Friday (December 13).

Find the full election coverage here: General election results for Chichester: Here's what you need to knowIn her speech at Westgate Leisure Centre in the early hours of Friday, Gillian Keegan said: "I would like to start by thanking you Madam returning officer, Diane, and your colleagues at Chichester District Council, West Sussex County Council and other volunteers on behalf of all of the candidates standing in this election.

"We thank you for the professionalism and dedication which you have all shown in conducting the count today. Winter elections are challenging for voters, candidates and election officials alike.

"It’s been nearly 100 years since the last December election and I for one hope we wait a similar length of time til the next one. Thank you for ensuring we could conduct the election despite the challenges of icy mornings, rain and sleet – and we are fortunate to be here in the south of the country.

"I would also like to thank the West Sussex police for ensuring our democratic process can proceed fairly and safely during these turbulent political times. I also want to thank my fellow candidates for the campaign that they have conducted here in the Chichester constituency.

"In particular I want to thank Heather from the Green party and my Labour opponent, Jay, both of whom fought vigorous and effective campaigns on the issues — without feeling the need to descend into personal attacks or smears in their election literature or on social media.

"They can be rightly proud of their campaigns and the way in which they have conducted themselves. This is what the people of Chichester expect from people who seek to represent them.