Jim Fitz leaves count amid rumours results won't be in until 8am

BALLOT papers are still being verified at Mile End Leisure Centre and the official line from the returning officer is that a result is not expected until 6am. But Labour s Jim Fitzpatrick, who arrived at the count to a big cheer, left less than an hour af

BALLOT papers are still being verified at Mile End Leisure Centre and the official line from the returning officer is that a result is not expected until 6am.

But Labour's Jim Fitzpatrick, who arrived at the count to a big cheer, left less than an hour after he arrived amid rumours that the results for the Poplar and Limehouse and Bethnal Green and Bow seats may not come in until 8am.

Mr Fitzpatrick, who is standing for the newly-created Poplar and Limehouse seat, and his wife Sheila left the count around 2.40am.

He said: "I'm going to come back later as it looks like it's going to be a long night; we may be waiting until 8am."

Police officers at the Burdett Road leisure centre were due to finish their shift at 7am but have been asked to stay in their posts until 8.15am.

Counters are still busy verifying ballot papers for the General Election, local elections and mayoral referendum.

Once verification has finished, the General Election votes will be counted and ballot papers for the local elections and mayoral referendum will be taken under police escort to the Town Hall where they will be guarded until counting starts at 11am this morning.