Walter Roban, the transport minister, retained his position as Deputy Leader of the Progressive Labour Party on Friday night after he beat challenger Scott Simmons in an election contest.

The votes were cast during the party’s delegates conference at Devonshire Recreational Club.

Mr Roban told The Royal Gazette: “I’m happy that I have retained the confidence of my party, my caucus team and membership to keep doing the work that I have been doing, not only for the past two years but for nearly 30 years of commitment and success for the PLP.”

Mr Roban added: “My track record speaks for itself. I only want to continue that work, we are stronger than ever and I am honoured to represent my membership.”

The voting figures were not released by party officials.

Damon Wade was voted in as party chairman and Lauren Hayward-Bell became deputy chairman.

Mr Roban became deputy leader of the Opposition in November 2016 when David Burt was voted in as Leader of the Opposition.

Mr Roban is also Minister of Transport and Regulatory Affairs and the MP for Pembroke East.

One of his recent accomplishments as Minister of Transport was the introduction of roadside breath test checkpoints to curb impaired driving on the island.

He has held numerous portfolios including transport, environment, planning and infrastructure, and health.

Mr Wade said: “I have the qualifications and experience needed and my intention is to use those to help to make the party a more efficient and effective entity.”

Ms Hayward-Bell added: “I am honoured. We are looking to grow our membership, strengthen our standing committee, ensure fiscal responsibility within the party and to build a party prepared to represent the people of Bermuda.”

Mr Burt praised Mr Roban earlier this week for the support he had given him in his political career.

He said Mr Roban had “taken me under his wing”.

Alexa Lightbourne is the new public relations officer.

• The story has been amended to correct the statement that Mr Roban was elected Deputy Premier in November 2016, The PLP was in Opposition at the time and Mr Roban was elected Deputy Leader of the Opposition. The statement that Mr Roban is the candidate for Pembroke East has also been changed to reflect that he is the MP for the constituency.