A high-profile by-election in the North remained too close to call today with little more than 100 votes between the two leading candidates after the first round of counting.

The leading contenders in a high profile by-election in the North remained in positive mood tonight as initial signs indicated their votes were holding up.

A council by-election will provide the latest litmus test for Northern Ireland's faltering power-sharing government today.

DUP leader Peter Robinson and Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams were both in Co Fermanagh today rallying supporters for an election that sees voters go to the polls next week.