VOTE-counters for the Worcestershire County Councl elections are ready and waiting for the day's work to begin.

The count, at Bransford's Bank House Hotel, is about to start with the thousands of ballot papers being distributed to the eight teams of five voters.

Chris Bocock, chief executive of Malvern Hills District Council, has just spoken to the counters.

"The essence is not speed, it's about the professional thoroughness we had last night.

"Take your time. Make sure you're doing your job as well as you normally do."