This year entry to the town hall was restricted and the customary groups of backers who accompany, especially, the central ward candidates had to settle for cheering their man from outside the back door of the building. The council had made provisions for anyone who wanted to be part of the proceedings.

A marquee had been put up at the front of the town hall, in Bridge Street, complete with wide-screen televisions relaying what was happening inside the building.

It was intended to keep the main corridors of the hall free for reasons of health and safety.

The marquee did not prove popular, however, and the crowds remained at the back of the building in St Peter's Road.

As their results became apparent, candidates, whose supporters were outside, came down the stairs and gave the thumbs-up to indicate things were going their way.

There were no major upsets, and the atmosphere remained cheery and calm into the early hours.