Congratulations to Nick Clegg

3.23.27pm GMT Tue 18th Dec 2007

The result of the Liberal Democrat leadership election has been announced, with Nick Clegg securing the leadership of the Party by a margin of just over 500 votes.

The result of the Party leadership election, announced in St Martins hotel in central London this afternoon was:

• Nick Clegg - 20,988

• Chris Huhne - 20,477

At the announcement of the result, Chris thanked Nick and his own campaign team. He said:

"We've elected a leader who is going to take us from strength to strength. Good luck Nick, congratulations and God's speed."

Chris Huhne has sent a message to his supporters, thanking them for their support over the past few weeks. In it, he said:

"Thank you so much for all your support over the last few weeks.

"Congratulations to Nick - it was a hugely close contest, and working together as a Party, we have every right to be optimistic for the future - Britain's liberal future."