It was an election well fought, but the mayor of Ottawa had some supportive words and friendly advice for mayor-elect Jim Watson Thursday.

“The best advice for Jim is for him to continue to be him,” said Larry O’Brien.

“The city of Ottawa elected him, and I hope he takes his own counsel as being the most important counsel.”

In a joint press conference Thursday, Watson said O’Brien has been supportive, offering his cellphone number and any advice he could.

“Transitions in government can be difficult, or they can be easy. Larry has offered great advice and time and he’s going to make this transition very easy for me and I thank him very much for that.”