TONY Blair claimed a record-breaking General Election victory as he headed back to Number 10 for an historic third term in power - but with a reduced majority.

He became the first Labour leader to win three contests in a row and promised to learn the lessons of the signal voters had sent by curbing his command of the Commons.

Mr Blair told party workers at Trimdon Labour Club in his Sedgefield constituency: "I know there are lots of lessons to learn but I do feel very proud of the fact that we have managed that historic third term victory."

He added: "To be re-elected for a third time is very special so it's a tremendous privilege and an honour."

Earlier, speaking at his own count, the Prime Minister said: "I know Iraq has been a divisive issue in this country.

"But I hope now we can unite again and look to the future."

The national picture was mirrored in Swindon where both seats were taken by Labour with a reduced majority.

As Michael Wills was re- elected for the third time in North Swindon with a reduced majority of 5.7 per cent, he said: "We must now listen and respond to what the people of this country want.

"I am pleased people have put their trust in me to represent them again. I knew the majority would come down."

And in South Swindon Anne Snelgrove took the seat with Labour's majority down 11 per cent.

Polls predicted a Labour majority of less than 100 - down from the 161 Labour enjoyed in the last parliament.

The Conservatives began to regain some of the ground lost in the last two elections, but there were few signs of any dramatic Liberal Democrat breakthrough.

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