of race of it, Corporation Secretary Roger Sherratt yesterday told The Royal Gazette .

With just seven days to go before the close of nominations, only two contenders are vying for the posts of Mayor and Common Councillor, said Mr.

Sherratt.

At this point it looks like Deputy Mayor William de V. Frith is set to sleepwalk into the Mayor's position, while Hamilton businessman David Dunkley seems assured of a seat as Common Councillor.

About 650 Hamilton residents, business owners, and property owners are registered to cast ballots on April 24, one week after the close of nominations. Two positions opened up after current Mayor William Boyle announced last year he would be stepping down.

It is believed if Mr. de V. Frith -- who joined the Corporation in 1972 -- assumes the office of Mayor, Alderman Lawson Mapp will become Deputy Mayor while Councillor James Jardine will vacate his seat to seek office as a first-time Alderman, clearing the way for Mr. Dunkley to sit as a Councillor.

In October last year Hamilton businessman Charles Spanswick -- announced he would be running for Mayor, but it is now understood he dropped out of the race, said Mr. Sherratt.

Should no other contenders emerge Hamilton's new Mayor would be sworn in on April 17, said Mr. Sherratt.