Mark Clarke's victory speech

"I'd like to start by thanking my opponent Caroline Hunt - who finished a good second - for fighting a clean and honourable campaign. I wish her the best of luck for the future and hope that CF will be able to continue to benefit from her expertise.

I'd also like to thank my campaign manager - Alex Williams - and the rest of my team who have all worked so hard over the last few weeks and months.

Obviously I'm very pleased with the result and am very happy with the NME team I am delighted to be a part of.

This is a good day for the Conservative Party and for Conservative Future. CF now has a challenge to get itself in shape ready to help David Cameron into Downing Street at the next election by winning in those marginal seats.

I'm looking forward to that challenge."