An email from Bill Newton Dunn

A characteristically graceful response to defeat arrives from Bill Newton Dunn:

Dear Jonathan Calder 

I'm sure you will have heard from the news that unfortunately we were not successful in our bid to retain an MEP in the East Midlands. Results from across the country have sadly not gone our way. 

Despite the best efforts of members across the region, we have not been able to overcome the national tide and the UKIP surge has cost us dear. We bucked the trend in 2009 but sadly we couldn't repeat that result this time. 

I wanted to say thank you for all the support you have given me, not just in this campaign but ever since I joined the Lib Dems over 13 years ago. Representing the East Midlands in the European Parliament for over 30 years has been a great joy and I am proud of what we have achieved together for the region. 

Over the next few days there is bound to be all sorts of media comment and speculation about the future of the party. It is vital that we remain united and dig deep to rebuild and look ahead to next year's local and Westminster elections. The first step on this path is the Newark By-election on June 5th. 

I look forward to continue working with you in order to ensure future success for the Lib Dems in the East Midlands. 

With thanks and best wishes 

Bill

Mind you, as Liberally Scott proves, Bill expressed himself rather more saltily in a live interview with BBC Radio Five Live.