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MR CANVEY - Tory councillor Ray Howard has retained his seat on Castle Point Council.
Pundits suggested Mr Howard's Canvey West seat was at risk because of a strong challenge by the Canvey Independent Party.
Mr Howard had a 367-vote majority over the Canvey Independent Party candidate Rod Cowley.
A clearly relieved Mr Howard said: "I am very happy and I am delighted after celebrating 39 years as a councillor today. I am so proud that Canvey people still want me to be their representative.Even though I have had a few personal problems recently I am still very grateful that the people of Canvey have put their faith in me."Dave Blackwell, the jubilant leader of the Canvey Independents said:"The vibes were out. A lot of people came in and gave good vibes that they were going to vote our way. What we won on is that we are honest and say what we can and can't achieve. That's what people ask for, honesty."
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