Kenneth Bascome was named the new Mayor of St. George's last night after defeating former mayor E. Michael Jones by 65 votes.

In the final tally, Mr. Bascome earned a total of 180 votes to Mr. Jones' 115. Five votes were spoiled.

An emotional Mr. Bascome thanked the St. George's community following the election, saying: "Thank you for the opportunity to be your leader.

"I only wish my wife and mother could be here."

Mr. Jones said that he was shocked by the results, but he wished Mr. Bascome well and said that he hoped to continue working for the people of the town in any way he can.

Beau Evans was re-elected to the position of Alderman by 172 votes.

He will be joined in the position by two new Aldermen, Board of Education member Garth Rothwell, who won 218 votes, and former Common Councillor Clarence Minors, who earned 168 votes.

Mr. Evans called the election a nerve-racking experience, saying: "It's tough in there. These elections are always so tight."

Kirby Blackstone, the head of the East End Division of the Chamber of Commerce, left disappointed after earning 154 votes.

Three-hundred people voted in last night's election, a turnout of more than three quarters of the registered voters in the municipality.

The results of the Common Councillor election could not be confirmed as of press time last night.

Running for the five Councillor positions were Alfonso Harris, Steven Hollis, Eakin McLaughlin, Renee Ming, Jamahl Simmons and George Sutherland.

ST. GEORGE ELECTION RESULT:

MAYOR

KENNY BASCOME – 180 votes

Not elected

E. MICHAEL JONES – 115 Votes

(Five spoilt ballots)

ALDERMEN

GARTH ROTHWELL – 218 votes

BEAU EVANS – 172 votes

CLARENCE MINORS – 168 votes

Not elected

KIRBY BLACKSTONE – 154 votes

Results of the common councillor election could not be confirmed at time of going to pre