PLP candidate Wayne Perinchief returned to the House of Assembly last night for a second successive term after he topped the poll in Pembroke Central last night.

Mr. Perinchief gained 406 of the 737 votes cast in the constituency. There were 331 votes cast for United Bermuda Party (UBP) candidate Rev. Leonard Santucci and two spoiled ballots.

"I am pleased with the result," said Mr. Perinchief, a 62-year-old divorced father of three and grandfather of six after the final count was announced. "I thought it was a high turnout... 73 percent."

The constituency contained 1,011 eligible voters and included the former Pembroke West Central constituency which the Progressive Labour Party took at the 1998 general election for the first time. Mr. Perinchief was elected with running mate Neletha Butterfield.

Rev. Santucci, a 39-year-old married father of two and guardian to his niece, said: "I am pleased with the outcome. Disappointed, but nonetheless pleased..."

Rev. Santucci was an opposition Senator until Parliament was dissolved.

When asked about his future in politics, he said: "I would probably say it is safe to say I will remain in politics in one way or another."

Each candidate was quick to congratulate each other.

A backbencher previously, Mr. Perinchief announced he would be looking for a ministerial role and a more relevant role in Government during his next term in office.

He is a former Assistant Police Commissioner and now serves as director of security at Fairmont Southampton hotel.

RESULT

Wayne Perinchief (PLP) 406

Leonard Santucci (UBP) 331