Party team bidding to win the constituency.

Mr. Pearman -- who announced he would not be standing again earlier this year -- urged voters to back E.T. (Bob) Richards and Larry Scott, both Senators until Parliament was dissolved.

He said: "As I retire, it's my utmost pleasure to throw my complete support behind Bob Richards and Larry Scott.

"Both of these young men have proven themselves through meritorious service in the Senate.

"They come to you experienced and very, very capable. Their aim is to help move this Country forward to even greater success.

"They are men of principle, ability, strength and action. These gentlemen will not seek the role of the constant critic, forever trying to find fault and continually playing the same negative song in the hope that the community will give credence to it.'' Mr. Pearman backed the UBP duo in a letter to constituents only days before the November 9 polling day.

He added that he was now 72 years old and had served for 15 years, with support from his wife Erminie.

Mr. Pearman said: "Now it my turn to repay her loyalty and to give to her in return.'' He added he was also responsible for his grandchildren and other youngsters for whom he had "accepted legal responsibility''.

But he thanked the voters of Warwick East for backing him through four terms of Parliament.

And he said: "I have been able to meet and get to know a broad cross-section of the people who comprise this constituency. This has been particularly gratifying to me.

"Looking back, I can assure you that I have many fond memories of the years that I have served you.''