Bob Blizzard's decision to retire from parliamentary politics was not the only end of an era in Waveney political history, as long-serving Green candidate Graham Elliott also decided to call it a day.

In his speech after the declaration of the result at Lowestoft's Waterlane Leisure Centre – in which he took the Greens to fourth place for the first time, ahead of the Liberal Democrats – he said: 'This is the fourth time I have stood for parliament – so I have got one less than Bob, but my record is not quite as good.

'I have been unsuccessful four times but I have gone up a notch now into fourth place, so that is significant progress for us. It is significant progress that we will be building on.

'Like Bob, this is the last time I will be standing for parliament.'

Mr Elliott said a 'fantastic candidate' in Elfrede Brambley-Crawshaw was waiting in the wings to take over – but stressed there would be a selection process and that she would be challenged for the position if there are other capable potential candidates.

'That is positive and I am really excited about working with the green team in the future, more than I have been in the past,' said Mr Elliott, who retained Beccles North seat on Waveney District Council and will continue to serve on the authority.

'We have a future of young people involved.'

What do you think of the Green Party's performance in this year's general election? Write, giving your full contact details, to: Journal Postbox, 147 London Road North, Lowestoft NR32 1NB or email andrew.papworth@archant.co.uk