Live: Aelsh election resultsLive text reporters: Elwyn Dryffdyn, James Anderson
2100: Hello and welcome to Aels Radio Television's live online text coverage as general election results come in from around the country tonight. Voting closed an hour ago and we're expecting the first results to be announced as soon as 10 pm.
Chief Minister Paul Duncan-Jones is fighting his third general election as leader of Aelsh Labour, having taken over from the current President of Tyneala, Rhonwen Brynwen, in 1084. He fought his first election in 1085, with his Labour party winning 73 seats in the 145-member Senate, and four years later that number increased by one to 74. Before the Senate was dissolved three weeks ago, Labour held 73 seats, 38 more than the largest opposition party Plaid Ymrau.
2105: Plaid, meanwhile, are still led by Rhodri Evans, who has been the leader of the opposition since he won the party leadership in 1088. This is his second election as leader of Plaid Ymrau, and recent opinion polls suggest his party may be making inroads on Labour. Plaid are a moderate party on the issue of a full split from Tyneala, with both unionist and separatist factions within the party.
2110: The third party, of course, are the Social Democrats, led by Jordan Walsh. It is one of the four parties with Senate seats that is unionist. They held 15 seats going into this election, and are likely to maintain around that number of ASMs. It has been highly speculated that the Social Democrats will be asked to form a coalition government should Aelsh Labour fall short of the 73 seats necessary to form a government.
2115: The minority parties in play held 22 seats between them going into the election. The pro-independence Aelsh National Party, led by Catrin Curtis and Aels Greens, led by Siôr Daly, had six seats each; while the unionist Conservative Party, led by Rhiannon Rhodes, and the Tyneala Forward Party, led by Padrig Parry, each had five seats.
2120: So here's how things work: polling opened at 8 am this morning across the three counties in 130 constituencies. Each voter had two voting slips: one for their constituency, and one for the unitary authority in which their constituency lies. There are 130 constituency ASMs, in addition to another 15 ASMs elected to represent the entire electorate within a unitary authority.
Polling was largely uneventful, and with a clear day, a high turnout in excess of 70% is expected.
2126: The seats being watched as key seats are those which saw ASMs elected with majorities under 1,000 in 1089. There are 25 such seats, with 13 of these held by Labour. Also seen as a big key seat is the constituency of North Drayfill, represented by Plaid Ymrau's Michael Morgan since 1056. Mr Morgan is stepping down from politics after serving 37 years in the Senate. His last majority here was nearly 7,000 votes—but Labour have been campaigning hard here.
2134: With Mr Morgan's retirement, the title of "Gentleman of the Senate", accorded to the longest-serving Senate member, will pass to Labour's Walter Turret – that is, if he is re-elected. Mr Turret has served Inner Doversham West since 1064.
2137: Incidentally, Mr Turret was the constituency ASM elected with the largest majority in 1089, winning by 9,816 votes over his Plaid rival. Labour also had the second-safest seat, Outer Trechoid, held by Peter Woods. Mr Woods, who has been in the Senate since 1073, won by 9,701 votes last time.
2145: As we wait for first results to come in, don't forget you can get in touch with us, by email at
newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page.
2151: Speaking of the President, Rhonwen Brynwen, her term as head of state of both Aels and Ancharmunn is up next year, when she will hand over to a Charmunnry successor. Ms Brynwen, Mr Duncan-Jones's predecessor as Chief Minister, is expected to be named to the Aelsh parliamentary upper house, the Council of Advisers, upon her retirement from the presidency.
2156: We're nearing the announcement of the first results soon. So what have been the hot topics this election, then? The unrest on Victorwick involving ethnic Citiz and Mytanar, and the subsequent military action by both governments, have been mentioned by both Mr Duncan-Jones and Mr Evans on the campaign trail, but voters know that Aels' foreign affairs are essentially dictated by Ballyfeeaknock, and that is not likely to have played a major role.
Instead, it's more likely that finance and the thorny issue of Aels' constitutional status within the Celtic Union that will play in voters' minds.
2200: Right, from here on out we're expecting results announced, one seat at a time, by the Chief Returning Officer at Government House in Drayfill. Each constituency returning officer would have reported the results of the electronic count to each candidate, allowing time for challenges to be made for the vote to be recounted by hand. Once there are no objections, the results are transmitted securely to Drayfill for the announcement.
2203: BREAKING NEWS There are reports that the vote majority in three constituencies are around the 300 mark, and have been challenged by losing candidates. Manual recounts are underway in these constituencies, and that has resulted in a delay in announcing the results. It's likely that these constituencies will be announced at the end of all the others, rather than in their normal slot.
2209: Chief Returning Officer Sean Edwards has just announced that results from 126 counties are final, and will be announced in about six minutes or so. The remaining four constituencies are being recounted, he says.
2210: Unitary authority results will be announced starting 10 minutes after the last constituency result has been announced, as per convention, Mr Edwards has confirmed.
2213: Willie O'Hanlon, in County Coshtaherd, Ancharmunn, via text on 30139 has asked what a Plaid Ymrau victory, or a hung Senate, will mean for Tyneala's future.
As our chief political analyst John Terfel explains, Plaid Ymrau are a split party on the issue of the future of the union between Aels and Ancharmunn. There is a growing sense within Plaid that the party needs to decide one way or another, instead of sitting on the fence as it has done for many decades. However, as it currently stands, Plaid support the status quo, so there isn't likely to be a major change if they win outright.
A hung Senate produces more questions. If Labour and the Social Democrats form a government, again, both parties are pro-Union and the status quo will be maintained. Labour will work as hard as they can to form a Unionist coalition, even if it means joining forces with the Conservatives. If Plaid were invited to form a coalition, they would have to rely on the stoutly separatist National Party and the Greens, who are also pro-independence. If that happens things will be a lot spicier in Aelsh – and indeed Charmunnry – politics.
2217: All right, here comes Mr Edwards again, hopefully with some results this time. Oh, here's a quick party key when reading the results… Aelsh Labour (LAB), Plaid Ymrau (PL), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Aelsh National Party (ANP), Aels Greens (GR), Conservative Party (CON), Tyneala Forward Party (TFP), Other (OTH), Independent (IND)
RESULTS…Drayfill West. David Drayton (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,844. John Terfel notes: Mr Drayton's margin of victory has decreased by around 1,500 votes from 1089, but otherwise.
Drayfill South. James Carwyn (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,538.
Drayfill and Coast. Petri Morgan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 7,968. John Terfel notes: This is one of Plaid's strongest seats, as Mr Morgan held the seat by 7,523 votes last time. He's actually increased his majority this time.
Inner City of Drayfill. Rhonda Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,882. John Terfel notes: Ms Jones was always expected to retain her seat, but she's increased her margin of victory by nearly 3,600 votes. Incredible.
North Drayfill. Judith Masters (SDP) elected, with a majority of 3,144. John Terfel notes: This was the most closely-watched seat, arguably. Michael Morgan, at 80, has decided to retire from the Senate, and it was widely expected to be a close fight between Labour, which dedicated much resources to this seat, and Mr Morgan's Plaid. Instead, the SDP has nicked in here and taken the seat. Incredible.
Drayfill East. Brian Kennedy (PL) elected, with a majority of 2,199. John Terfel notes: This seat was held by one-term Labour ASM Mary Hill, who was expecting to be re-elected. Her electorate have clearly told her she hasn't done enough for them, with a swing of nearly 7,000 votes. Chalk this one up as one of Plaid's inroads into Labour territory.
2225: Right, that's the first batch of them done. Some stunners there, so let us know your thoughts. You can get in touch with us by email at
newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page.
After the Drayfill constituencies, the Senate stands at LAB 3, PL 2, SDP 1.
2226: Mr Edwards is back with the next set of results, from Trechoid and from Penfro. Chief Minister Paul Duncan-Jones is the incumbent for Dinas Penfro, and is widely expected to be re-elected for another term in the Senate. Leader of the Opposition Rhodri Evans is also an ASM for a Penfro constituency, and is seeking re-election in North Penfro.
RESULTS…
Trechoid Central. Pauline Evert (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,782.
Outer Trechoid. Peter Woods (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,169. John Terfel notes: This was a very safe Aelsh Labour seat – in fact, the second-safest. Mr Woods has been the ASM here for 20 years, and had a majority of 9,701 votes last time. That nearly 8,000-vote swing will have the Labour bigwigs worried.
Gorllewin Tricoed. Hebert Wallace (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 3,642.
Trechoid City and Northeast. Hilda Jones (SDP) elected, with a majority of 2,305. John Terfel notes: Labour's Ashley Warden, who was elected in 1089, has surprisingly been defeated in a seat Labour have held since 1073. Another early setback for the government.
Trechoid South and Southwest. David French (LAB) elected, with a majority of 3,113. John Terfel notes: And yet with every setback Labour seems to gain something to nullify the losses. This has been a Plaid seat held by Margo Dunstable since 1085, but after eight years it's returned to Labour.
Dinas Penfro. Paul Duncan-Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 5,589. John Terfel notes: The chief minister was always going to be re-elected, so the real question here was with what kind of margin. 5,589 votes is about 1,400 less than four years ago, but he'll be happy with this.
Penfro Bay. Craig Price (ANP) elected, with a majority of 7,201. John Terfel notes: This is rather out of the blue. All right, so practically speaking nothing much is different here, as this was a safe Green seat beforehand – i.e., pro-independence. However, the last Green majority here was over 6,000 votes, so the Nationalists have really been working hard here. Geraldine Cross, the Green ASM for Penfro Bay since 1081, is now standing for the moderate Plaid in a different constituency.
Penfro Metropolitan. Lucas Mandelbrook (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 812. John Terfel notes: This is always one of the most competitive seats in the legislature, in addition to having one of the smallest electorates. Mr Mandelbrook was elected four years ago with a majority of 776, so he's actually increased his winning margin this time.
Penfro Outer East. Pierre Framlington (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 1,204.
Penfro Inner East. Gerald Rodgers (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 5,736.
North Penfro. Rhodri Evans (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 8,985. John Terfel notes: In another sign of Plaid's growing popularity, opposition leader Mr Evans has increased his majority by nearly 1,400 votes.
Penfro South and Regions. Stanley Pursewin (CON) elected, with a majority of 5,642. John Terfel notes: While the Nationalists may have gained Penfro Bay, they've lost Penfro South and Regions, which is a huge blow. It's a swing of over 12,500 votes to the unionist Tories, which will make for some head-scratching at ANP headquarters.
2243: So, even more surprises as we go through the next two major urban cities. As things stand, the Senate make-up is LAB 8, SDP 4, PL 3, CON 2, ANP 1. For all that's been said about Plaid making a fresh charge, it seems like it's the Social Democrats who are angling at becoming the second-largest party.
2245: Right, here we go again. This time Mr Edwards will deliver results from the last remaining major cities: Doversham, Imeall an Uisce, and Plaidstone-upon-Celts. Imeall an Uisce's three constituencies all returned Tyneala Forward Party ASMs last time, and it will be interesting to see if that holds.
RESULTS…
Doversham Metropolitan. Roger Wealdstone (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,720.
Doverston and Outer Doversham. Charles Crayston (TFP) elected, with a majority of 1,806. John Terfel says: The seat was held by two-term ASM Chelsea Smith of the Conservative Party, but at least it's stayed in unionist hands.
Inner Doversham West. Walter Turret (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 9,242. John Terfel says: Walter Turret is now the "Gentleman of the Senate", with another strong electoral showing. A 9,242-vote majority reinforces his popularity among his constituents.
Inner Doversham South. Bryn Thomas (PL) elected, with a majority of 6,011. John Terfel says: Oh dear, this one's gone horribly wrong for Labour. Sandy Pollock was a three-term ASM, first elected in 1081, who had a nearly-5,000-vote majority last time. She will be thoroughly disappointed, as will the chief minister. Then again, apart from the west, Inner Doversham has always been a Plaid stronghold, and it's likely their influence here has finally won them back the seat they lost in 1077.
Inner Doversham East. Andras Bevan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 5,124.
Inner Doversham North and Suburbs. Bethan Cadogan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 7,751.
Imeall an Uisce–Core. Alistair Conor Cook (IND) re-elected, with a majority of 7,134. John Terfel says: Mr Cook, who represented the Tyneala Forward Party at the last election, stood as an independent in this one after falling out with his party. It hasn't put voters off, though, as he's safely re-elected.
Imeall an Uisce–Outer. Paul Denbigh (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 8,947.
Ymyl y Dŵr. Ross Mac Braden (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,606. John Terfel says: It's no surprise that this border city remains in favour of strong ties with Ancharmunn and Tyneala, and that's proven with the re-election of all three incumbents.
Radius and Plaidstone. Harriet McVeigh (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,143.
Plaidstone Harbour. Tadgh Mac Carnagh (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,636. John Terfel says: Here a rare swing the other way – actually in favour of Labour. Two-term ASM Al Reeves of the Social Democrats has lost out here.
Plaidstone Town. Drystan Walsh (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,686.
Plaidstone Waterston. Dafydd ap Siôn (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,071.
2306: Phew, that took a while, didn't it? Right, let's recap how the parties are doing at this point. Aelsh Labour have 12 seats, Plaid Ymrau have 6 seats, the Social Democrats have 5 seats, the Tyneala Forward Party have 4 seats, the Conservatives have 2 seats, the Aelsh National Party have 1 seat, and an independent (linked to the TFP) has 1 seat. The Aels Greens have yet to register, which must be a concern for them.
2307: And, as always, if you have any questions you can get in touch with us by email at
newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page. We'll get to your questions after the 130 constituencies have been announced.
2308: Next we move on to the smaller cities and larger town constituencies.
RESULTS…
Llanislwyn Modern. Mikael Jorgensen (SDP) elected, with a majority of 504. John Terfel says: Another loss for Plaid, as Bethan Evans is ousted in Llanislwyn Modern. The other Llanislwyn ASM seeking re-election is Jorgensen's fellow Social Democrat, Charlotte Woodward, so this result may suggest Ms Howard's majority will increase.
Llanislwyn Kermadec. Charlotte Woodward (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 6,234. John Terfel says: That's a huge increase for the SDP from 1089, when this seat was won by just 823 votes. They are a party on the up.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae North. Laura Anderson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,872.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae South. Lewis Johnson (LAB) elected, with a majority of 309. Mr Edwards, the chief returning officer, adds that this was one of the four seats in which the vote was recounted. John Terfel says: This is a major blow for Plaid, who've lost one of their longest-serving ASMs. Glyn Idwal has been their man here since 1073, and after 20 years Mr Idwal will no longer be a member of the Senate. Expect Plaid to nominate Mr Idwal to the upper-chamber Council of Advisers.
Goldcliff. Scott French (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 3,132.
Aberwood. Geraldine Cross (PL) elected, with a majority of 3,029. John Terfel says: This seat was declared as 'one to watch' before the elections, and the results have proven those predictions right. Geraldine Cross, the former Green ASM for Penfro Bay since 1081, has defeated the SDP's Owen Wallace, who also held this seat since 1081.
Amman Glen. Ryan Llewellyn (SDP) elected, with a majority of 2,456. John Terfel says: Another loss for Plaid, who may well be wondering where this has gone wrong. However, it's worth noting that there are still around 90 constituencies to declare, so we shouldn't read too much into this first third of results.
Pontyport. John Cargill (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,470. John Terfel says: There we go. Plaid have finally, after much waiting, taken a second "safe" seat from Labour. Marged Price had served Pontyport for 12 years.
Fishwick. Charles Ryan (ANP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,185. John Terfel says: A third term beckons for Mr Ryan, and with an increased majority of about 300 votes. Encouraging for the Nationalists.
2320: Quite a few interesting results from those constituencies. As we sit, the new Senate make-up is LAB 15, PL 8, SDP 8, TFP 4, CON 2, ANP 2, IND 1, GR 0. The change from the previous Senate (based on the 40 declared seats) is as follows: LAB -1, PL -1, SDP +2, TFP ±0, CON ±0, ANP ±0, GR -1, IND +1. John Terfel, our chief political analyst, says that there is not enough in those results to read into any trends which may be developing. However, he points out that Labour barely had a majority after the last election, and even a single lost seat will mean they are unable to form a majority government.
2324: After a short break, here's Mr Edwards again. He announces that results will now be delivered 15 constituencies at a time.
RESULTS…
Harling. Bryn St Iago (PL) elected, with a majority of 2,073. John Terfel says: Big loss for Labour, who had four-term ASM – and Cabinet Minister for Transport – Alexander Simmons seeking re-election here.
Hampress. Morwen Gough (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 696.
Carlow. Kenny Lawton (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,595. John Terfel says: Another blow for Labour as they see yet another seat slip out of their grasp. Kieren Mervin was a one-term ASM.
Bexing. Caitlin Horton (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 776.
Launcester. Owain Sutton (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 1,568.
Greater Torring. Rachel Miah (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,549.
Lesser Torring. Padrig Parry (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,937.
Caerfremin. Holly Rowley (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 964.
Chilcompchester. Rhys Johnston (GR) re-elected, with a majority of 251. Chief returning officer Mr Edwards confirms this was one of the seats with a recounted vote, as the Conservative candidate Michael Saunders was at one stage leading the count. John Terfel says: The Greens finally defend a seat, and even then only by the skin of their teeth. What must leader Siôr Daly be thinking?
Gradstock. Rhiannon Rhodes (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 2,733.
Barkhall. Siân Jones (PL) elected, with a majority of 648. John Terfel says: Score one for moderate Plaid as they take Barkhall from the ANP. Barkhall had been in ANP or Green hands since 1081.
Dinshindam. Simon Coles (CON) elected, with a majority of 2,182. John Terfel says: I do wonder if the Greens will now step back and re-evaluate their position on independence. They're losing seats everywhere and maybe a return to true Green politics, away from the thorny issue of Tynealan unification, will help.
Hadcott. Andruws Mayberry (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,164. John Terfel says: Another knock for the separatist movement in the Senate as the ANP lose another seat to moderate Plaid. Starting to think that even the separatists within Plaid will now be forced to keep their concerns to themselves, as clearly the electorate are in no mood for a split. What is notable about recent results is that Labour haven't made any inroads in any of these seats.
Neuadd y Benyd. Siôr Daly (GR) re-elected, with a majority of 471. John Terfel says: Even that was a close shave for the Green leader, as his winning margin falls by nearly 800 votes. A post-mortem will be ongoing right this very moment.
Whitting. Siwan Potts (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 877.
2340: That's the next batch of 15 seats announced, with massive losses by the separatist movement. However, notably, Labour hasn't won any of these seats. Plaid seem to be making real inroads in these places, even if they aren't necessarily winning Labour seats. The Nationalist leader Catrin Curtis's seat is due to be announced in the next set of results so we'll see if she hangs on to her seat.
2341: The current make-up of the Senate: LAB 16, PL 14, SDP 9, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 2, GR 2, IND 1. We hope to have leader of the opposition, Rhodri Evans, speaking to us soon, hopefully after the next set of results. Text or email any questions you may have for him. We suspect he'll be fairly pleased…
2345: Here we go again as Mr Edwards is back to deliver the results from constituencies 56 through 70.
RESULTS…
Treuddyn. Ian Davis (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,404. John Terfel says: Another seat lost by the Nationalists. A horrible day at the polls for the separatist camp.
Rhescae. Catrin Curtis (ANP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,598.
Christle. Wendy Primer (ANP) elected, with a majority of 835. John Terfel notes that this is another Green seat, this time lost at least to the Nationalists.
Spitalfords. Aaron Cunningham (ANP) elected, with a majority of 925. John Terfel says: The Greens will need to rebrand themselves if they are to ever become a significant political party, as they lose yet another seat here.
Moulton-upon-Celts. Frank Woodward (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,036. John Terfel says: Well, isn't that one that we haven't seen in a while! A Labour candidate has been elected, and to top it off they've snatched the seat from Plaid, whose incumbent ASM Elise Storey had served since 1077.
Middleworth. Trefor Pollard (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,429.
Capresthrone. Madeleine Thornton (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,231.
Westhoughster. Dafydd Vaughn (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,425.
Great Totting. Hubert Tamworth (SDP) elected, with a majority of 699. John Terfel says: A lost Plaid seat, although they won't be too worried given their other gains.
Lesser Totting. Alun Graves (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,155.
Chadderster. Alwyn Baker (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,993.
Croster. Lucy Wilson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,521.
Ulverster. Briallen Joyce (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 714.
Winderdale. Tyler Price (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,627.
Twigham. Dewey Nixon (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,045.
0004: That's probably more like it for Labour, who must've been concerned at the way things were going. We've just spoken to Plaid's
Rhodri Evans, but before some quotes from that interview, here's the latest Senate floor: LAB 21, PL 20, SDP 10, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 1.
0006: Mr Evans, who spoke to us by phone for five minutes from his constituency office in North Penfro, said he was "extremely pleased" by the gains Plaid has made from the separatist camp. However, he admitted there was a significant faction within his party with breakaway sympathies and said that the party would have to "reconcile our differences on the issue" and move forward, "especially in light of today's results".
0006: Mr Evans also said that while he did not expect Plaid would be the largest party today, "we believe we have won enough seats to prevent a majority Labour government". Mr Evans did however acknowledge that a unionist coalition would not be difficult to form between Labour and the Social Democrats.
0007: On his re-election as ASM for North Penfro, Mr Evans thanked the voters for giving him an increased majority of nearly 1,400 votes from 1089, and said he would lead a "strong opposition".
0008: Here comes the next set of 15 constituencies, from Brackendale to Dinningsdale.
RESULTS…
Brackendale. Taylor Howard (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,045.
Longtown. Cledwyn Jones (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 968.
Brampsdale. Robert Sims (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,406.
Harksdale. Rhod Davies (PL) elected, with a majority of 583. John Terfel says: Labour's Georgia Newton, the Cabinet Minister for Employment, has been unseated by a strong challenge from Plaid. Chalk it as a win for the opposition.
Esling. Samuel Werrington (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,056. John Terfel says: Social Democrat Eirwen Holden held this seat after winning a by-election in 1090, caused when she was expelled by Labour. She's been unseated for good this time.
Lamber. Jonathan Barlow (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 862.
Longhoughster. James Barnard (LAB) elected, with a majority of 250. Mr Edwards says this was another of the recounted seats. John Terfel notes: Another Plaid loss, although this one won't hurt too bad as they only held the seat for one term.
Alndale. Emrys ap Siôn (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,958.
Elling. Ellie O'Neill (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 549.
Widdiring. Geraint Hamilton (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,828.
Ashings. Gwilim Heffin (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,749.
Stanning. Billy Read (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 986.
Bedlingdale. Elfed Harries (PL) elected, with a majority of 673. John Terfel says: An SDP loss this time, they've held this seat since 1085.
Cramlingdale. Thomas Sinclair (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,430.
Dinningsdale. Gwyneth Richards (LAB) elected, with a majority of 680. John Terfel says: Some concern in the SDP camp as they lose another seat, although this time they only held it for one term. The SDP are still five seats off their previous total, but they're likely to win at least one unitary authority Senate seat as well, if not more.
0025: So it's been all Labour and Plaid in those 15 constituencies, as the two main parties trade blows and start to pull away from the pack. After 85 declared seats, Aelsh Labour have 30, Plaid Ymrau have 26, the Social Democratic Party have 10, the Conservative Party have six, the Tyneala Forward Party and Aelsh National Party have five each, the Aels Greens have two, and one is held by an independent.
0030: Just three more rounds of this until we have all constituencies declared and we move on to the unitary authority areas. Sean Edwards, our Chief Returning Officer, is back with the results for seats from Fellington to Suttonside.
RESULTS…
Fellington. Gethin Tudur (LAB) elected, with a majority of 2,243. John Terfel says: Lowri Morgan had been Plaid's ASM in Fellington since 1077, and this will be a blow to them.
Seahampton. Geraint Pryce (LAB) elected, with a majority of 2,841. John Terfel says: If the last one was a blow, this is a right hook that sends Plaid down. Plaid have lost their deputy leader, Morwen Atkinson, who had served Seahampton for 20 years.
Loftus. Jordan Walsh (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,561.
Seamerton and Cay. Owen Summers (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,827.
Bridling. Pedr Pryce (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 562.
Ealington. Teleri Price (LAB) elected, with a majority of 419. John Terfel says: Labour are making gains left, right and centre here. They take this one back from the Social Democrats, who held it for one term.
Dunningsworth. Amélie Middlewich (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,336.
Cowdenton. Kiera Evans (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,620.
Cottinghamton. Matthew Goodwin (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,892.
Swant. Sophia Hill (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,850.
Airmyndale. Branoc de Rais (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,196.
Blacktofton. Morgan Morgan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,601.
New Adderston. Isabella Framfield (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,786.
Cwmgwaed. Victoria London (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,186.
Suttonside. Charlie Woodside (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 736.
0046: We've been told to expect finalised results for all 145 seats by 2:15 am. The new Senate will be sworn in tomorrow. With 100 seats declared, here is how that new Senate looks: LAB 39, PL 30, SDP 12, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 1.
0047: Chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones has just been on television to say that he doesn't expect to be able to form a majority government, which Labour has had since 1056. Aels could be headed for its first coalition government since the Social Democrats headed a two-party coalition with Labour from 1052 to 1056. Mr Duncan-Jones has not indicated which party or parties will be asked to join Labour in a coalition, and also remained quiet on whether his deputy Lucy Wilson will remain DCM in the new government. John Terfel suggests that Mr Duncan-Jones may believe that he will be able to ask one of the smaller parties, perhaps the Tyneala Forward Party, to form a deal.
0049: Here we go with the next 15 seats, from Burghton to Steadson. Before the election, all but one seat of these 15 were held by the government. Our chief political analyst John Terfel believes Labour could lose up to five of their 14.
RESULTS…
Burghton. Dylan Kay (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 715.
Swaffhampton. Eve Hardy (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,986.
Acleton. Bledri O'Donnell (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,483.
Disslingdale. Jake d'Avennes (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,374.
Preshampton. Melissa Hughes (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,194.
Sea Lane. Evan Griffiths (PL) elected, with a majority of 978. John Terfel says: A swing in the winning majority of nearly 2,500 votes from Labour to Plaid. Won't be the last we see of this.
Woodfordton. Siân Hughs (IND) elected, with a majority of 650. John Terfel says: Ms Hughs becomes the second independent elected to the Senate at this election, knocking off a Labour ASM. She's aligned to the Tyneala Forward Party, but chose to stand as an independent.
Grangedale. Oliwier Donaldson (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,341.
Chapelton. Ifan Evans-Jones (PL) elected, with a majority of 537. There goes another 'safe' Labour seat – John Terfel tells us Labour held that since 1073, with outgoing ASM Alana Crowther having served since 1081.
Minsterton. Collwen Gibson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,821.
Farlow. Amélie MacLean (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,224. The chief minister's wife is re-elected with an increased majority from the last election.
Darrow. Leigh Miller (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,792.
Wickdale. Dylan Dafis (PL) elected, with a majority of 616. John Terfel: Another gain for Plaid as they take out a rising Labour star.
Wappington. Ray Sutherland (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,597.
Steadson. Sara Scott (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,633.
0105: Well, that makes things rather interesting now as Plaid won four and an independent won one of the last 15, with Labour returning with 10 of their original 14. Just the final 15 constituency ASMs and 15 unitary authority area ASMs to be declared, and here's how the Senate looks: LAB 49, PL 34, SDP 12, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 2.
0110: Here we go with the final 15 constituencies to be declared.
RESULTS…
Sydendale. Iestyn Tomos (CON) elected, with a majority of 652. John Terfel says: Whoa. Chalk this up as an upset for both Labour and Plaid, as the Conservatives sneak one more in to improve to 7 seats in the new Senate.
Stockdale. Caitlín Ní Cheallacháin (TFP) elected, with a majority of 1,913. John Terfel says: Another one for the minor parties, as Labour and Plaid both slip up again. What's happening here?
Stanton. Eirianwen Maddox (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,471. John Terfel says: Normal service resumed, of sorts, but Labour will not be liking their losses here.
Stamfordston. Matthew Bell (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,083.
Kensing and Quays. Nia Vaughan (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,470. That's a Labour loss too.
Slipton. Anthony Murray (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,822. In a change for Labour, Mr Murray's actually increased his majority by about 1,300 votes.
Raynerston. Carys Cronne (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 956.
Nantnewydd. Beatriz Ballifeary (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,150.
Rhydmawr. Grant Brown (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,924.
Penpont. Madeleine Reilly (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,869.
Llanech. Findlay Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,642.
Ynysgof. George Shannon (TFP) elected, with a majority of 530. John Terfel says: Another seat for the TFP, which may be doing them some good as it would arguably improve their chances of being invited to form a coalition.
Caerstrad. Declan Crawford (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,566.
Afonporth. Jason Walker (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,030.
Llanpwll. Kai Mitchell (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,573.
0126: As earlier announced, there will be a pause of 10 minutes before the 15 unitary authority area results are announced. Before that though, here's where we stand: LAB 58, PL 37, SDP 12, CON 7, TFP 7, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 2.
0128: Plaid have already improved on their previous total of 35 seats, while the Social Democrats have suffered the next biggest loss of seats after Labour at this point. John Terfel points out that in the extremely unlikely situation that Labour win all 15 unitary authority area seats, they will have managed 73 – enough to form a majority government. He speculates that if they only fail to win one or two, they may attempt to form a minority government with the implicit backing of the two independents, rather than go for a full coalition.
0135: Right, here we go as chief returning officer Sean Edwards makes his way to the announcing rostrum for the final time tonight.
Unitary authority area results…
Drayfill City Council. Rebecca Parry (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,806.
Gyngor Dinas Penfro. Chelsea Wyatt (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,725.
Doversham City Council. Sam Roadside (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,416.
Trechoid City Council. Padrig Docherty (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 6,249.
Comhairle Imeall an Uisce. Keira Wallace (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 10,122.
Plaidstone Council. Eoin Mac Conmara (LAB) elected, with a majority of 4,116. John Terfel says: Oh dear, not a good day for the Social Democrats as they lose one of their UAA seats to Labour. They're ten seats down on their previous total, although one of the seats they hold is yet to declare. They will be happy to have remained the third largest party.
Gyngor Llanislwyn. Siân Roderick (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,375. The confirmation of this result ensures that Labour will not be mathematically able to form a majority government.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae Village Council. Jonathan Webster (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,984.
West Hilshore Council. Sioned Rhydderch (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 9,344.
Hilshore Central Council. Eamon O'Connell (LAB) elected, with a majority of 15,913. Siorus Nerys, the incumbent Labour ASM, chose not to stand for re-election.
Hilshore East Authority. Jade Witney (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,106.
Dovershore West Council. Alex Lane (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 15,719.
East Dovershore and Regions Assembly. Caryl Rhys (LAB) elected, with a majority of 6,656. John Terfel says: And that compounds the day for the Social Democratic Party. Despite a strong start, they've faded, and will likely finish with 10 fewer seats than they had had.
West Pwentshore Council. Alexandra Hutchinson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,300.
East Pwentshore Authority. Kiera Tiwlip (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 11,620.
0155: And that's it, all the results have now been announced. Labour will probably not be too unhappy despite losing their razor-thin majority of one, as they're still the largest party by far. Plaid have made a significant gain, while the Social Democrats are the biggest losers in relation to expectations. The pro-separatist movement also took a beating today at the polls.
0200: So here's the final make-up of the new Senate:
Aelsh Labour 69 seats (lost 4)
Plaid Ymrau (Aelsh Party) 41 seats (gained 6)
Social Democratic Party 12 seats (lost 3)
Conservative Party 7 seats (gained 2)
Tyneala Forward Party 7 seats (gained 2)*
Aelsh National Party 5 seats (lost 1)
Aels Greens 2 seats (lost 4)
Independents 2 seats (gained 2) *both linked to the TFP
0205: Thanks for sticking it out with us. We'll have reaction in the morning, when chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones will meet with his potential new coalition partners.