A sad farewell?

Crazed paparazzi clambering over each other in the confines of Thame Leisure Centre can mean only one thing - the Miss Great Britain ladies are here.

Elections can be far too stodgy and serious at the best of times, and even the biggest cynic would be hard pressed to deny they've brought glamour and humour to proceedings. Much like the Loonies, who are also here, though perhaps less beauty from them.

But I bring bad news - both Louise Cole and Amanda Harrington have just confirmed that this will be their last election - providing, of course, they don't win.

Both told me they had great fun, learnt a lot but feel they should let someone else have a go.

Honourable intentions undoubtedly, but this hack for one mourns their premature retirement from politics.