The deputy leader of the One Bermuda Alliance’s eight-year tenure in the House of Assembly ended last night.

Leah Scott was beaten at the polls in Southampton East Central, Constituency 30, by Jason Wade of the Progressive Labour Party. Mr Wade took 486 votes, 54.85 per cent of the vote, to Ms Scott’s 400 votes, 45.15 per cent of the ballots cast.

Ms Scott, 61, had represented the constituency since 2012.

She said: “I think people are looking for somebody younger, and looking for change.

“The voters spoke and that is what democracy and the democratic process is all about.”

She added: “I’ve had eight good years. I’ve enjoyed my time as an MP, but the baton has been passed and I wish him every success.”

Ms Scott said that her loss could be considered a blow to the party on a night of shocks for the OBA. But she added that her defeat “in no way stops me from being a community servant”.

Ms Scott said: “I have always done community work, so that will continue.”

Mr Wade, 34, is a political newcomer, but has deep roots in Southampton.

He was brought up in the area and went to Heron Bay Primary School, the polling station for the voters of Southampton East Central.

Mr Wade was also president of Southampton Rangers Sports Club from 2016 to 2020.

He was cheered by supporters as he left the polling station last night.

Mr Wade, also chairman of the board of governors at CedarBridge Academy, said: “I appreciate everyone who assisted us. We put a lot of work in on the doorsteps.”

He added: “Now, the real work begins.”