ALBANY — Republican challenger Randy Altschuler yesterday conceded to Democratic Rep. Tim Bishop in a congressional race on eastern Long Island. It had been the nation’s only undecided House contest.

Spokesman Rob Ryan said Altschuler decided against forcing a hand recount in the 1st Congressional District.

Bishop last had a 263-vote lead with 977 absentee ballots left to be counted of the more than 194,000 cast.

“After consulting with my family and campaign staff, I am ending my campaign and offering congratulations to Congressman Tim Bishop on his victory,” Altschuler said.

He said of a hand recount, “I will not support such an action, as I feel its cost will place an unnecessary burden on the taxpayers of Suffolk County.”

Altschuler called Bishop before 9 a.m. yesterday to concede.