UKIP candidate Charles Dodman said he had been realistic about his chances in the constituency and he was fighting for his principles.

He told his supporters at the Winsford Lifestyle Centre "We must fight on."

Mr Dodman managed to gain 1931 votes and came in fourth place.

He said: "I am disappointed, in that many people were scared away from voting for us. many people who said they would vote for us were scared into voting Labour to try and stop the Tories getting in."

He added: "I stood for one principle and that is a referendum on Europe."

he said: "The other parties will not offer a referendum and we have the right to a referendum."

He said: "I have been extremely pleased with the campaign and have had a very positive response from the public. I will continue to fight on for a referendum."