In a county where every constituency has a Conservative MP, Mrs Iles had been expected to win.

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Paul Iles, who died in 2011, was Associate Director at Richmond's Georgian Theatre Royal for more than 10 years.

BBC: The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond

Three years ago, Ed Iles, from Essex, graduated with a 2:1 in plant science hoping for a career in scientific research.

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Just 13 votes had separated Mr Hurley and Mrs Iles in the first round of voting, based on electors' first-preference votes.

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"We're not commenting on speculation, " said Charles Iles of Mitsubishi Motors Australia.

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The names of some of those who lost their lives were read out and Ruth Iles-Spencer, Mrs Cooke's aunt, spoke during the service.

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Mr Iles worked in theatre and arts management throughout his career.

BBC: The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond