We want your vote! That was the message from the leaders of the three main political parties in Southend as they squared up for the elections.

Conservative Howard Briggs, Labour's Chris Dandridge and Liberal Democrat Graham Longley, as well as the other smaller parties, are all hoping they will come out on top after the council votes are counted tonight.

But above all, they all hope to see an increase in the percentage of poll in the town.

Give us a cross : Howard Briggs, Chris Dandridge and Graham Longley Picture: DAVE HENDERSON

Also standing are a number of Greens, independents, residents' representatives and BNP candidates.

Polling stations will be open until 9pm.

For full election results see tomorrow's Evening Echo.

Published Thursday, May 1, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo