Labour candidate John Stockton is ‘cautiously optimistic’ over his chances tonight

AN ABOVE average turn out in Weaver Vale could benefit the Labour party according to their candidate John Stockton.

Speaking hours before the count is due to begin, Mr Stockton, who has been canvassing across the constituency, said: “It’s going very well, it’s been extremely positive and we’re getting a good response.

“The BBC haven’t put us down as a danger seat so that’s positive, the Labour vote is standing up.

“I am cautiously optimistic but I will believe it when the returning officer announces my name tonight.

“We’ve heard there’s an above average turn out, for example by 10am this morning, 30% of people in Windmill Hill, Runcorn, had cast their cotes.

“It’s going to improve around here and could benefit Labour.”