Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning is “delighted” to be leaving the European Union after yesterday’s referendum.

Mr Penning, who represents part of Kings Langley, said: “I am delighted at this historic result and that the people of the United Kingdom have voted for hope and democracy over the stifling bureaucracy of the failing EU project.

“This is something I have been working towards for my entire political career and to see it finally come about is absolutely fantastic.

“Today is the beginning of a new chapter in our history. We will soon, once again, be in charge of our own destiny.

“We will be able to negotiate trade deals across the world that suit us. We will stand up for our businesses and get the best deal for our people.

“This referendum has engaged the public like no other debate in recent times, and now that it is over we need to come together and take our country forward with renewed hope to ensure a better future for our children.”

Mr Penning also paid tribute to Prime Minister David Cameron who has said he intends to resign.

He said: “I am saddened to see the Prime Minister announce his resignation this morning. As always, he has spoken in a dignified and honourable way.

“David Cameron has been an outstanding Prime Minister of our country at a very difficult time. Both as leader of the coalition and, in the past year as leader of the first Conservative government in a generation, he has transformed the political landscape.

“In 2010 he inherited a basket case of an economy and he has turned it around, creating over two million new jobs and supporting business and enterprise.

“When he steps down in the Autumn, David Cameron will be able to proudly look back at his achievements and be confident that he has made the UK a fairer and more prosperous society.”

Three Rivers voted to Leave by 51 per cent. Watford, Dacorum and Hertsmere also voted to Leave.

St Albans voted to Remain.