THE parties are remaining up beat about their chances in Harrow as the election result edges ever closer.

With the first few seats announcing across the country and exit polls giving the Tories 305 seats in Parliament, Susan Hall, leader of the Tories in Harrow said the party remains hopeful of taking both Harrow seats this evening.

She said: “It is looking better by the minute, but having said that, we realised very quickly on the doorstep that things were looking up.

“I sincerely hope Bob Blackman comes in as predicted, and I have high hopes for Rachel Joyce in Harrow West.”

Labour are hoping to retain both seats in the borough, and party activists who are observing the count say they are “optimistic” of a successful night.

Liberal Democrat candidate Nahid Boethe was one of the first to arrive at Harrow Leisure Centre, along with UKIP's Herbie Crossman and Abhijit Pandya.

Mr Crossman, who is standing in Harrow West, said UKIP is hoping to set up a branch in Harrow after the election.

He said: “We have had good responses on the doorstep, and people have been very positive.

“As long as we get our deposit back, that will be a success, and we hope to grow from this election.”

Initial estimated time for results in Harrow is between 3am and 4am. Volunteers are still checking the ballot papers before the counting can begin.