The United Bermuda party yesterday rolled out three more candidates to fight tough Government-held seats in the next election.

Sean Pitcher, 44, who is operations and marketing manager at Container Ship Management will fight Pembroke East.

A former Principal Customs Officer, Mr. Pitcher, from St. David’s said: “I believe that if you aren’t part of the solution, then you are part of the problem. I want to get involved, be part of the solution — and make people’s lives better than they are.

“There is a growing number of people in Bermuda who are not well off. They are ignored, taken for granted, and it is those working class people and middle class people that I want to represent. I want to work with them and ensure that their interests are protected.”

It’s thought he will face former PLP Senator Walter Roban at the next election as sitting Pembroke East MP Ottiwell Simmons steps down.

Mr. Pitcher wants to work with Police to increase public safety and to improve recreational facilities at Pig Field by adding football goalposts and playground equipment.

Charlie Swan will take on Education Minister Randy Horton in Southampton West. A lifelong Southampton resident Mr. Swan, 50, is managing director of Batson Swan Plumbing and Heating.

He wants to reduce rush hour traffic congestion at Rockaway, upgrade the Railway Trail between Rockaway Road and Main Road and help develop an annual event that reflects the rural character of the constituency.

He said: “I know the area and its people, and I have seen the changes over the years.

“I’m reachable and approachable, and want to help my neighbours with their interests and concerns by taking a seat in the House of Assembly.”

And 31-year-old Douglas DeCouto will face House Speaker Stanley Lowe in Southampton East. Mr. DeCouto works for a reinsurance company here in Bermuda and teaches the occasional course at the Bermuda College.

He said: “The Government does not exist for its own sake. It is there to serve the people.

“When a government stops serving the interest of the people, it is time for a change.

“This election is an opportunity for people to choose a government that will focus on them and one that will be transparent and accountable. For the residents of Southampton East, that means decision making that improves public safety, takes better care of our seniors and improves the education of our children.”

He wants to work with the Police, Social Services and local groups like Southampton Rangers to combat crime and improve traffic flows, particularly on Camp Hill, Horseshoe Road and Riviera Road.

Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley said he wasn’t getting too carried away with the latest poll which had his party six points ahead.

He said: “We are encouraged by the poll. It’s clear over the last three or four months we are treading in the right direction. But I take nothing for granted. We have a lot of work to do.

“There are a lot of people out there who we need to shake by the hand and look in the eye and let them know what we stand for.”

However, this week former UBP campaign chairman David Sullivan predicted his party would lose the election. At best he forecast it would take 17 seats to 19 for the Government.

Mr. Dunkley said: “My interpretation was he was saying it’s going to be very close, some seats too close to call.”