In pictures: Night of election drama

5 July 2024

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Image source, Pacemaker
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Counting went on through the night at Meadowbank Arena in Magherafelt after polls closed on Thursday evening.
Image source, Pacemaker
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It would be a busy night for the media too - here Gareth Gordon throws questions to Gavin Robinson who was re-elected in Belfast East.
Image source, PA Media
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Jim Allister ended a 54-year Paisley dynasty in North Antrim by winning the seat for Traditional Unionist Voice.
Image source, Pacemaker
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He defeated Ian Paisley who made his exit by blowing a kiss to the media.
Image source, Pacemaker
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The new Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Pat Cullen (second from left) celebrated her win with Mary Lou McDonald, Michelle O'Neill and Michelle Gildernew.
Image source, PA Media
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In Lagan Valley, Alliance's Sorcha Eastwood became the constituency's first female and non-unionist MP.
Image source, Getty Images
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The SDLP retained its two seats, including Claire Hanna who was elected in Belfast South and Mid Down.
Image source, Getty Images
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Alex Easton was embraced by family after he became an independent unionist MP in North Down, unseating Alliance deputy leader Stephen Farry.
Image source, PA Media
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From hospitals to Westminster - Stormont's former health minister Robin Swann is the new UUP MP for South Antrim.

It was a long night for the counters, politicians and reporters as Northern Ireland's 18 constituencies were determined in the 2024 general election.

BBC News NI has trawled through the pictures to find the most striking images which tell the story.

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