FOUR years ago, there were two seats up in this ward and the two Labour candidates won by a country mile.

Then came the brief purple reign in 2014, when Ukip’s Dan Long won by 50 votes. Labour’s popular Ian Beckett retained his seat in 2015 winning by 256 votes.

There is no reason to suggest that there will be a turn-around in this ward. Labour have a very capable candidate in Mark Ingall, who looks like he will be a strong working partner with cllr Beckett.

The issues in the ward include anti-social behaviour, potholes, house repairs, crime and traffic.

Naturally Labour are also campaigning on the wider issues in Harlow including the health service, crime and the effect of the cuts.

The other candidates include Patsy Long (Ukip) and there is no doubt that Patsy will be helped by the steering work done by her son, cllr Dan Long, who works tirelessly for his residents.

Loyal Ash Malik will once again be standing for the Conservatives and Chris Robins for the Liberal Democrats

Prediction: Labour hold.