Jo Platt re-elected as the Labour MP for Leigh and Atherton

The town's former MP between 2017 and 2019, Ms Platt was ousted by James Grundy in 2019 as he became the first ever Conservative to be elected in the town.

However, almost five years later, the former Astley Mosley Common councillor and Leigh Spinners Mill general manager has been re-elected in the newly formed Leigh and Atherton constituency with 19,971 votes.

Reform UK's candidate George Woodward came in second place with 11,090 votes while Michael Winstanley finished third with 6,483 votes.

With Labour dominating in seats across the country, a tired but elated Jo Platt said that the party ran the election campaign as a "changed Labour Party [...] that is focused on the priorities of working people".

After the pain of 2019, Jo Platt thanked everyone who voted for her and said that despite the challenges that lie ahead, she will get on with the job she has been sent to do and will not let the people of Leigh and Atherton down.

READ > General Election 2024 Summary - Leigh and Atherton: Live coverage

Jo Platt after her election victory (Image: Leigh Journal)

Jo Platt's speech in full

Speaking after the result was confirmed, Jo Platt said: “Thankyou to the returning officer, electoral services, council staff, and the police for their hard work in ensuring today’s smooth operation. I also extend my gratitude to the people of Leigh, Atherton, Tyldesley, Golborne, and Lowton. After 14 years of Conservative failure, you’ve demanded change.

“We ran this election as a changed Labour Party. Thank you for putting your trust in us to change the country. This is a vote for a Labour Party that is focused on the priorities of working people. We will fight for economic security, cheaper bills, safer streets, the NHS back on its feet, secure borders and better opportunities for our children.

“I want to acknowledge James, the outgoing MP. Though our politics differ, you have always held these towns close to your heart. Thank you for your service and for representing this great community.

“Losing this seat in 2019 was deeply painful, not just for me personally, but for those who desperately need a Labour government. It was a moment of reflection and realisation for us all.

“Over the last four years, under this Conservative government things have got worse. The Labour Party has listened to our concerns, learned from past mistakes, and developed policies that speak directly to towns like ours.

“The people of this constituency deserve a government that has their back, supports their aspirations, and enables grassroots regeneration. Labour is ready to be that government, building on the pride and potential of our towns. We are committed to working with you, hand in hand, to bring about the change that is so desperately needed.

“I want to thank my family – my mum, my dad, my sisters, and especially my long-suffering partner and our three children for always being there for me. A heartfelt thank you to my remarkable agent, Claire, for keeping me organised, and to Paul and Sam for managing the campaign.

“To the Leigh and Atherton constituency Labour Party, thank you for leading a professional and positive campaign. Your efforts are the foundation of this success, and it belongs to each and every one of you.

“To everyone in Leigh and Atherton – those who voted for me, those who voted differently, and those who stayed at home – I promise to represent you all and be your voice in Parliament. I will always be on your side.

“This is a vibrant, diverse, warm, and welcoming community, and throughout this campaign, it has become clear that there is far more that unites us than divides us.

“But make no mistake, I am realistic about the scale of challenges we face and the practical, common-sense steps we will take to fix them. There is no magic wand, but the Labour Party has a laser-focus on what it takes to get Britian’s future back.

“So, once again, I’d like to thank the people of Leigh and Atherton. You’ve put your faith in me, voted for change, and supported a Labour Party with a clear, positive vision for our future.

“I will get on with the job you have sent me to Westminster to do. I won’t let you down. Thank you.”