Sandys South last night, enjoying a large lead over UBP candidates Mr. Arthur Gauntlett and Mr. Ralph Richardson.

Neophytes to the political game, Mr. Gauntlet and Mr. Richardson were hoping to make major inroads among the PLP base supporters after their predecessors Mr. John Harvey and Mr. Larry Scott lost by more than a two to one margin in 1989.

In pre-election speculation, Mr. Gauntlett boldly predicted an "upset''. But it was he and his partner who were turned away by the final tally.

Leading the way for the victorious duo was life-long Sandys Parish resident Mr. Lister, with 1,144 votes. Mr. Roberts garnered 1,109 votes. Mr. Gauntlett and Mr. Richardson earned 447 and 466 votes, respectively.

"I think over the years we have attempted to give this district fair representation,'' said Mr. Lister, fighting his seventh election. "People have asked for nothing more, nothing less, and that's what we've measured up to...fair representation. We try to deal with all the problems that come in as best we can.

"People call us all the time. We have our surgeries once a month. And all these things contribute to good representation and communication with the constituents.'' Mr. Roberts, vying for a seat in the House for the ninth time, said that he was not surprised at the margin of victory in Sandys South. He said that he was disappointed with the overall vote outside of west end district.

Mr. Roberts said four hours into the count: "Earlier, knowing that we were increasing our majority, we were hoping that the same thing was happening elsewhere. It was, but not sufficient to carry the party over the top.'' Mr. Richardson and Mr. Gauntlett both admitted that the odds were stacked against them in tackling two very experienced and well known candidates.

Nevertheless, neither appeared disheartened by the defeat and each pointed eagerly to the future for a chance at redemption.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the first experience,'' said Mr. Richardson. "This is getting me ready for the next one. It didn't discourage me in any way and I'm quite happy with the result, especially when you consider the tremendous disadvantage we were in.'' RESULTS Walter Lister (PLP) 1,144 Walter Roberts (PLP) 1,109 Ralph Richardson (UBP) 466 Arthur Gauntlet (UBP) 447 Void ballots 11.

OCTOBER 1993 ELECTION