Voters in the borough have backed a change to the electoral system, bucking the nationwide trend.

But despite receiving Haringey's backing, the second referendum in UK history ended in a decisive 'no' vote, with the public overwhelmingly rejecting the AV system.

In Haringey, 30,310 people voted 'yes' (56.62 per cent), with 23,223 voting 'no' (43.38 per cent).

53,533 people took to the polls in the borough, which was a higher than expected turnout of 35.7 per cent.

In the UK as a whole, 68.31 per cent of the country voted 'no' to the change, with 31.69 per cent backing it.

The result deals a blow to Nick Clegg, the Liberal Democrat leader, after heavy poll losses in local elections across the country.

The referendum was a key plank of the Liberal Democrat manifesto and was part of the coalition agreement after last year's General Election.

Tottenham MP and Yes to AV spokesman David Lammy said on Twitter: "Well done Haringey and North London for bucking the trend and leading the way in voting yes to AV."

The borough joined neighbours Islington, Camden, and Hackney as part of only 10 boroughs in the UK that said 'yes'.

Local Liberal Democrats, who had campaigned hard for a 'yes' vote, thanked the borough's residents for their support.

Lynne Featherstone, MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, said: “It was very heartwarming to see the people of Haringey so resoundingly saying 'yes' to fairer votes on Thursday – a little ray of sunshine on a pretty dark day.

“Sadly, the fantastic result we got here in Haringey was not echoed elsewhere.

“But I am pleased that locally, we not only had above the London average turnout, but people really engaged with the campaign and the issues, and I’m proud of Haringey and of the many engaged and enthusiastic residents who live here.”

Robert Gorrie, leader of Haringey Council's Liberal Democrats, said: “It just shows what can be done if an informed and progressive electorate get the facts.

“Full marks to Haringey residents.”