Airdrie-Cochrane UCP MLA Peter Guthrie has been returned to office with 60 per cent of the vote, holding off a strong challenge from NDP candidate Shaun Fluker.

"We've had a lot of ups and downs over the last four years," says Guthrie. "There's been a lot of challenges, but there's also been a lot of successes and I think that's being recognized here in Airdrie-Cochrane.

"You know, I think there's a lot of work to be done. I am looking forward to us having a majority to continue the work we set out to do."

Guthrie received six per cent less of the vote than in 2019. Fluker grabbed an additional 12 per cent for the NDP.

Guthrie supporters gathered for a private function that overflowed onto the Rockyview Taphouse's patio before many headed indoors to watch the results roll in.

election night party

guthrie indoors

Cheers echoed through the Taphouse when Guthrie was declared elected, then again when a majority UCP government was confirmed.

The unofficial election results early this morning indicated the UCP would be forming a majority government with 49 seats. The party received 52.6 per cent of the vote, compared to the NDP's 44.

The election results don't become official until June 8.