CHELMSFORD Labour supporters have hailed Jeremy Corbyn’s victory after he beat challenger Owen Smith in the party’s leadership battle.

Eilish Pudney, 19, secretary of Chelmsford Young Labour, said support for Corbyn, who visited Chelmsford Civic Theatre last month during his campaign, is high at the moment.

She said: “He has worked so hard to become the leader of the party and I think all his work has paid off and he deserves it.”

Chris Vince, Labour activist, said the party must now unite behind the new leader.

He added: “Now more than ever, with a Tory government, we need our Labour family to stand up for those most vulnerable in our society to defend our schools and protect our NHS.

“Having campaigned across Essex with Labour activists, some with differing opinions on the leadership election, I know we can lead the way in showing the unity that Jeremy himself has spoken about.”

The Chelmsford Momentum group, a left-wing grassroots movement group supporting Labour, is holding a public meeting at the Bird in Hand pub, New Writtle Street, on Tuesday at 7.30pm with Mr Vince to discuss where Labour is now following Mr Corbyn’s re-appointment.

Momentum’s Andy Abbott said: “For Labour now to unite it is essential that different positions within the party engage in respectful dialogue. We are anticipating a very healthy and open discussion.”