As we come to the end of a very successful General Election campaign our canvass data is showing that we can take this seat from the Conservatives. The result may be very close, so before you cast your vote, please consider some very relevant facts.

Right now, the Conservatives nationally appear to have conceded defeat and the Liberal Democrats now have a unique opportunity to make history in Salisbury.

Locally, the Tory Party and its candidate are at their lowest ebb. If the local Tory does get in again, then with the very real possibility of a Leadership Challenge and a Tory party in disarray, Salisbury will be deprived of any representation whatsoever.

It is nothing short of a disgrace that the Tory having "served" for 18 years is asking, in effect, "give me another chance". He has not provided a solution to so many things for you, your family and Salisbury District. He has let the traffic situation deteriorate despite having been Roads Minister. He merely promotes a scheme that even his own Government cancelled before the last General Election on strong environmental grounds.

Look at this fact: He says he will "fight tooth and nail" to keep us out of a Federal Europe and save the Pound - but then openly campaigns with the support of Sir Edward Heath, Britain's most prominent pro-European. How confused a message can you give!!

Nothing in the local Tory campaign has told the electorate of his achievements during the previous eighteen years neither does he say what he will do if re-elected. With many pressures bearing down on Salisbury Constituency this is wholly unacceptable. Is it any wonder that the Conservative Party is at such low ebb? Their local candidate, having been in Government and therefore influential in the party, must accept at least partial responsibility for his party's state of affairs.

During the campaign the Lib Dems have met many people, across the political spectrum, who say "Salisbury needs urgent change". This change can only begin with the election of an MP who will work hard, with focus and determination. Yvonne will meet this challenge.

It is clear that the Tory candidate can only survive on the basis that Labour voters vote Labour or do not turn out on polling day. This would amount to an MP elected yet again by default; an MP who does not carry any popular mandate.

In 1997, nearly 6 out of 10 voters wanted the Conservative out. Today, the Lib Dems have many pledges of support from disillusioned local New Labour supporters and lifelong Tories.

It is always difficult for any voter to change their traditional voting preference but it is clear that people have recognised that change is desperately needed if Salisbury is going to be properly represented and if Westminster is to have any chance of reconnecting with the electorate.

With all this in mind Yvonne has pledged to work hard with determination for the whole of the constituency and with all the energy she can muster.