The referendum on the European Union, promised and delivered by the Prime Minister, has resulted in an overwhelming majority of local people in Nuneaton opting to leave.

The results from across the country and the implications of them are being analysed in the media and I have no doubt that speculation will continue over the coming days, weeks and months.

Each of us as individuals have had to make a difficult decision, arguably the most important we will ever have to make at the ballot box. We are privileged to live in a democracy and whilst I personally voted to remain, and set out my reasons for that prior to the referendum, I fully respect the decision of voters to leave, to set the UK on a new path, one which at the moment is full of uncertainty but also opportunity.

It is vital that our town – and country – comes together, and for our political leaders to do all they can to secure the right conditions for Britain’s withdrawal from the EU. There is a significant amount of work ahead before Article 50 can be invoked.

The decision of our Prime Minister to announce his intention to resign is honourable. He made a heartfelt and sincere speech outside number 10 this morning and he has served our country in very difficult circumstances. His integrity is without doubt; and he firmly believes that such a fundamental decision as our relationship with the EU had to be made by you, the voters, throughout the United Kingdom and not by politicians on your behalf.

The people have spoken and we must respect that. As the MP for Nuneaton, Arley and Hartshill, my hard work for our communities in Parliament will continue and I look forward to continuing to serve you, and to protect your interests to the very best of my ability.