United Bermuda Party chairman Wayne Furbert edged out Progressive Labour Party candidate Rev. Wilbur Lowe claim the Hamilton West seat.

Mr. Furbert topped the polls with 502 votes closely shadowed by Rev. Lowe with 441, a mere difference of 61 votes. There were 1,208 registered voters.

"I thank the people of Hamilton West for having confidence in me to perform the tasks," commented an elated Furbert afterwards.

"Not only for the people of Hamilton Parish but the country at large. But most importantly, and last but not least, I thank God for the victory," he added, before heading to rejoin his UBP colleagues at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

Mr. Furbert said he was not surprised by the end result as he was always confident that his hard work would bear fruit. Such was his confidence, that around 2 p.m. he boldly declared that he would win the seat.

"But the higher result is in the hands of God, who doesn't see race but heart," he added.

However, while there was jubilation in Mr. Furbert's corner, rival Mr. Lowe was left to ponder his narrow defeat.

"I would have liked to have won, but I'm pleased with the overall result," he conceded, while being consoled by PLP colleagues.

Rev. Lowe said that he will continue to serve the people of Hamilton West both politically and spiritually ensuring that the elderly within the community are satisfied and that the youth are given direction.

Mr. Lowe said he had worked hard canvassing the constituency but felt he could have worked harder in the final hours to get more of his people out.

There were six spoiled votes.

Results

Wayne Furbert (UBP) 502

Wilbur Lowe (PLP) 441