LABOUR secured a second victory, with a more routine win in Bolton South East.
Candidate Yasmin Qureshi, who is believed to have became the first ever Muslim female MP, said she was "humbled" and believed that her tactic of old fashioned canvassing saw her through.
She said: "I am really happy, delighted but also very humbled.
"I felt that we needed to be positive and get the message across of all the good that Labour has done over the last 13 years.
"We did some canvassing and sent out 25,000 letters to say we would be in the area, which is unheard of.
"I am pleased for the Labour members that have helped me so much."
Lib Dem candidate Donal O'Hanlon said: "I'm a little disappointed not to have kept closer contact with the Conservatives but I was up against a standing councillor who is well known in the area.
"I thought the Clegg bounce might have stayed for a little longer. I was hoping for a little better."
There were boos from from supporters of other parties for BNP candidate Shelia Spink, who accused her detractors "bringing sham on your family name."
Her ranting speech claiming the BNP would continue to grow in support was brought to an end when the Mayor, Cllr Norman Critchley ordered her away from the microphone.
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