FORMER Conservative MP Shaun Woodward, controversially selected as Labour's candidate for St Helens South, held on to the traditional socialist stronghold, but with a vastly reduced majority.

The former member for Witney in Oxfordshire, having succeeded Douglas Hurd in 1997, polled 16,799 votes, giving him a majority over Liberal Democrat Brian Spencer of 8,985.

In the 1997 election, retiring MP Gerry Bermingham polled 30,367 votes, a majority of 23,737 over his nearest rival, Conservative Mary Russell.

Result

St Helens South

Winner: Shaun Woodward (Lab) 16,799

Brian Spencer (Lib Dem) 7,814

Lee Rotherham (Con) 4,675

Neil Thompson (Soc All) 2,325

Mike Perry (Soc Lab) 1,504

Bryan Slater (UK Ind) 336

Mick Murphy (Ind) 271

David Braid (Ind) 80

Labour hold

Majority: 8,985

Percentage Poll: 51.65%

Meanwhile, in St Helens North, Dave Watts held on to the seat for Labour, but with a reduced majority following a low turn-out.

The former St Helens Council leader, who won the seat in 1997 with 31,953 votes-- a majority of 23,417 over Conservative, Pelham Walker -- this time polled 22,977.

That gave him a majority of 15,901 over Tory candidate Simon Pearce, with Liberal Democrat, John Beirne again finishing third.

Result

St Helens North

Winner: Dave Watts (Lab) 22,977

Simon Pearce (Con) 7,076

John Beirne (Lib Dem) 6,609

Stephen Whatham (Soc Lab) 939

Labour hold

Majority: 15,901

Percentage poll: 52%