DAYS after he was defeated, Liberal Democrat Dan Rogerson said he will be staying in North Cornwall and is 'passionately committed' to bringing the party back into the fold.

Mr Rogerson said the loss was a 'disappointment' but he is keen to remain part of the Liberal Democrat team that looks to the future for North Cornwall.

"It is a disappointment but it was part of a big national picture that's happened. The feedback I have had personally and locally has been really positive and very warm and that's been nice to get. Sometimes when you are caught up in a massive political swing like that, that's what's going to happen.

"I want to be part of the team here in North Cornwall that looks to the future as well.

"Fifteen-thousand people voted Liberal Democrat and so I want to add towards that total, and a lot of people have been joining the party over the weekend as well — just over 40 people signed up since the election and some of those are rejoining, but the majority are new people of all ages, from 13 to people who are at retirement age as well."

Mr Rogerson took part in the traditional pull on Saturday, which takes place from Newport in Launceston to the town square.

"The tradition has been done win or lose over the years and we had a good crowd of people turn up. Some are voters and others just wanted to show their support and it's nice to keep these traditions going."

Mr Rogerson joined the party at the age of 16, but said at that point he never anticipated becoming an MP — he has held North Cornwall for ten years.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.