MERCOURI LOSES IN ATHENS MAYORAL VOTE

Melina Mercouri, the Greek actress turned Socialist politician, has lost her bid to become mayor of Athens, the top prize in nationwide local elections. The outcome of Sunday's election was another major blow for the Socialists after being ousted from the national government last year, and a triumph for the ruling conservatives, who were seeking support for tough measures to help an ailing economy.

With 87.4 percent of the votes counted in Athens, Ms. Mercouri conceded defeat to Antonis Tritsis, a former Socialist Cabinet colleague.

Mr. Tritsis had secured 50.2 percent of the vote, and Mercouri 45.9 percent.