Jeremy Corbyn has held on to his north London seat for the 11th time, on this occasion standing as an independent rather than a Labour candidate.

The former Labour leader clinched a victory with more than 24,000 votes, compared to Labour candidate Praful Nargund who won more than 16,000.

It will come as a huge relief to Mr Corbyn, who has represented the north London constituency for 40 years.

Speaking at the count, he said: “I want to place on record my enormous thanks to the people of Islington North for electing me for the 11th time.”

He added: "We have shown what kinder, gentler and more sensible, more inclusive politics can bring about.

“I couldn’t be more proud of my constituency than I am tonight and proud of our team that brought this result. Thank you very much Islington North for the result we have achieved tonight.”

Islington North was on a knife edge, with the earlier general election exit poll saying that it was too close to call.