OVER the past three weeks I’ve criss-crossed Dorset speaking to everyday people about the election.

It’s taken me to the market towns of Wimborne and Blandford, the seaside resorts of Bournemouth and Swanage and the hustle and bustle of Poole town centre.

I’ve spoken to dozens of people, from as young as 18 to as old as 92. Most of Dorset has never been a Labour stronghold, and everywhere I went it was clear that, as the national polls show, Gordon Brown faces an uphill struggle in this election. But it remains to be seen whether employment minister Jim Knight can defy the national mood by holding onto his South Dorset seat.

Nick Clegg has gained the most from this campaign.

A relative unknown before, the historic Prime Ministerial debates in particular have done him the world of good.

Dorset people reflected that feeling – many were impressed with him.

But it’s the age-old worry for the third party – will people act on that feeling and actually vote for them?

David Cameron’s Conservatives have a lot of support in this part of the world, but it was unclear whether he was inspiring enough enthusiasm to propel him to Downing Street.

The effect of controversies such as the expenses and lobbying scandals has split voters.

Some say they won’t vote because of it, others say it means their vote is more important than ever.

One person was voting for the first time aged 36, whereas another who had voted in every election he was eligible for said he wouldn’t bother this year.

For many apathy is alive and well – plenty don’t believe that voting will make any sort of difference.

It all points to one of the most unpredictable elections in memory.

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