Progressive Labour Party stalwart Dennis Lister won by 275 votes in Sandys North Central last night gaining a fifth successive term.

Mr. Lister topped the poll with 556 votes, followed by United Bermuda Party candidate Donald Hassell with 281 votes.

Mr. Lister said: "Once again I am quite honoured by the people of Somerset and Constituency 35 who have given their trust and faith in me to represent them and represent Bermuda. Once again I will give my best, and all, to assist the constituents of number 35, the people of Sandys, and the people of Bermuda as well."

The PLP veteran, who has sat in the same seat in the House of Assembly since 1989, called a victory for Patrice Minors. "I'll call on her to congratulate her. I know it's in the bag for her."

Mr. Hassell, who has owned Somerset Country Squire for 21 years, said the election had been a valuable experience for him.

"This is the first time out for me. I have never been in this scenario before. The outpouring of people has been very good. I am a well-known person in the area which probably helps but I had no misconceptions."

He added that the election that had been engaged in the media and the one carried out on the doorsteps were two different things. Mr. Hassell conceded that he was running in a PLP stronghold. Speaking of Mr. Hassell, Mr. Lister said: "I always appreciate a good challenge. We wish him well."

There were two spoiled ballots out of 839 total votes. In the 2003 general election, Mr. Lister recieved 532 votes against Anthony Steede with 262 votes.

RESULT

Dennis Lister (PLP) 556

Donald Hassell (UBP) 281