Mayor of Hamilton Jay Bluck was continuing to fight for his life in King Edward VII Memorial hospital last night, having been admitted on Wednesday with what is believed to be a heart complaint.

A hospital spokesperson said the 65-year-old Mayor ? who is just four months into his period in office ? was receiving treatment in Intensive Care, where he remained in a critical condition.

Premier Alex Scott said last night that he would be calling Mr. Bluck's family directly and speaking to the Corporation of Hamilton to express his prayers for his quick recovery.

Deputy Mayor David Dunkley is filling in at City Hall where Mr. Bluck has been in charge of a $20 million budget since he was voted in on April 27.

In a statement yesterday, Alderman Dunkley said: "I ask that the Mayor and his family be kept in everyone's thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. I wish to thank everyone for the many calls of support I have received for Mayor Bluck. This has been a comfort to his wife and family."

The hospital has not given out details of the nature of Mr. Bluck's illness for reasons of patient confidentiality.