THE assembly member for Ealing and Hillingdon has spoken of his delight after retaining his seat.

Richard Barnes was re-elected last night with an increased majority, keeping his place on the London Assembly.

He said: "It's an incredible feeling, it really is staggering to think about.

"I work hard within the constituency, which matters to people, and everybody tells you there are a lot for votes for you as a person within the total."

Mr Barnes increased his majority by almost 17,000 votes, and put the success down to his work in the community, going to meetings and activities with local people.

He spent the day today meeting with the other 11 Conservative members of the assembly, starting to prepare their agenda for the next four years.

Mr Barnes will be joined in the assembly by British National Party member Richard Barnbrook, but has said he will not to work with him.

He said: ""He is entitled to be on committees by law, but I feel sure people will express their disgust, one way or the other.

"I think that is a humane reaction to repugnant policies."

Mr Barnes said he is looking forward to starting work properly when new Mayor of London Boris Johnson is sworn into office on Monday.

He said: "Boris has a magnetic personality, and it is a joy to be a part of it.

"It is clear what he wants to do, to bring London together under an open and transparent organisation.

"He is a breath of fresh air."