Former St. George's Mayor E. Michael Jones intends to move away from politics following his unsuccessful bid for re-election.

Mr. Jones said, yesterday, that he was still shocked by the result, which saw him lose by 65 votes to Kenny Bascome, who was elected Mayor during Corporation of St. George's elections on Wednesday.

While he has offered to assist Mr. Bascome, he said it felt like it might be time to step aside.

"I was very hesitant at running this time," he said. "I think the chances of me throwing my hat into the ring again will be very unlikely. I've been in this game a long time. Perhaps it's time for me to step aside and let others take over."

While he said he's not sure why he lost, he has accepted the defeat. "There might have been a feeling that I was too close to Government, or that I wanted to roll up the Corporation. I don't know.

"I can't think of anybody who is more concerned about this town than me.

"I thought I had a far greater opportunity with my background, but obviously the voters decided differently."

While he said he would spend less time working politically in the town, he promised that he would continue to help in any way he could.

"There's nobody who loves this town more than me. I will always make myself available to pitch in."

While he wished Mr. Bascome the best of luck, he said he's not envious of the work that needs to be done.

"The time and energy needed to pull St. George's socks up is enormous. Looking at the vastness of the challenge ahead, I wish the Mayor and his staff luck.

"We're looking at an uphill battle in the short-term, the medium-term and the long-term. There are so many things to do."

Hamilton's Mayor, Charles Gosling, and Minister of Health Walter Roban, the Minister directly responsible for working with the municipalities, both congratulated Mr. Bascome for his election.

"I look forward to working with Mayor Bascome and his team as we more forward with reforming and modernising Bermuda's Corporations," Mr. Roban said.

One of those who lost out in the election was the Executive Aide to the Premier, Jamahl Simmons, who ran unsuccessfully for a position as Common Councillor.

Mr. Simmons, a former United Bermuda Party MP, who will step down from his current job as Executive Aide to Premier Dr. Ewart Brown at the end of the month, garnered 142 votes in the election, nine votes shy of his nearest competitor.

Mr. Simmons said: "I think I did pretty well with just a week's canvassing. I love the St. George's community and, elected or not, I'll always do what I can to make life better for everyone in the community."

Asked about his future plans, the former MP said he would make an announcement early next year.

Renee Ming topped the poll for Common Councillor with 216 votes. Steven Hollis, the only candidate running for re-election, drew 189 votes.

He and Ms Ming will be joined by George Sutherland, who got 178 votes, Alfonso Harris, with 166 votes, and Eakin McLaughlin, with 151 votes.