It was never going to be a close race in Smith's South - and United Bermuda Party candidate Cole Simons ended up winning the seat almost three to one.

But Progressive Labour Party candidate Elizabeth Christopher kept a brave face throughout, smiling to the bitter end, cheered on by her mother and father, who throughout believed she was going to win despite the odds.

A tired Mr. Simons said he was very pleased to win, as the candidates came out shortly after 10 p.m. "I was confident about winning, but it was hard work," he said.

And he said that the results, his 638 votes to Miss Christopher's 226, were an affirmation that the people were not happy with the PLP government, and he said he would work hard to make sure the voice of his constituents was heard.

Miss Christopher, who had a small group of family and friends cheering her on outside the polling station at Whitney Institute during the count, said she felt good after the vote.

"I really have had a great time, and I would love to run again," said Miss Christopher, a lawyer. "I am not surprised the PLP is doing well. We ran on our record."

The two candidates spent the day in the sweltering heat, greeting voters with a smile and a handshake from early morning until after the count.

There was an early morning surge of voters, who kept up a steady flow, peaking just before 5 p.m. By 7.15 yesterday the returning officer, Albert Steede, said that 85 percent of voters had turned out during the day.

Cole Simons (UBP) 638

Elizabeth Christiopher (PLP) 226

Rejected ballots 2

Spoiled ballots 3