WALCOT; LAB HOLD: FOR Coun Mavis Childs, holding Walcot for Labour is a reflection of having called Walcot home for three decades.

Although there had been fears among some Labour supporters that the Conservatives might secure a surprise victory, Coun Childs was unfazed.

She said: "I think this is a personal vote.

"If you are going to be an effective councillor, you have to work hard on your ward, and when you work hard, that is recognised.

"I lived in Walcot for 30 years, so people there know me.

"You have got to listen to what people are saying, and listen carefully. People in this ward know they can ring me at any time after seven in the morning, and even if I don't answer at the time, they can leave a message and I will get back to them.

"That's what you have got to do if you want to keep your votes."