Three main parties all confident of Hastings success

Current MP Michael Foster is defending a majority of around 1,100 - reduced from 2,026 in 2005 after changes to the constituency boundaries.

But both his main rivals - Conservative Amber Rudd and Lib Dem Nick Perry - are confident of coming out on top.

Mr Perry, speaking earlier this week, said he had seen first hand the Clegg Effect, with support blossoming since his party leader stole the show on the first live televised leaders' debate.

"Since Nick appeared on television we have had twice as many hits on our website as we would normally expect," said Mr Perry. "People are honking their car horns when they see me and I have had a good reaction from people on the doorsteps.

"Our position is not so different to Michael Foster's in 1997."

Ms Rudd, favourite with the bookies, said she was not counting her chickens. She said: "I am very, very hopeful. A lot of people seem to have reached a consensus of opinion that Gordon Brown has let them down. I am just hoping that translates into votes for me."

Mr Foster said he had been well received on the door-steps. "I am optimistic but not complacent. This is a tough fight. I see it as me or Amber. If Mr Perry honestly thinks he is in the running he must be on happy juice."

Nick Prince (BNP), Rod Bridger (English Democrats) and Tony Smith (UKIP) will all also be hoping they have done enough to win your vote.

Not made your mind up yet? Then read on for our final look at the candidates or visit www.hastingsobserver.co.uk. And remember to visit our website on Thursday night for live up-to-the-minute coverage from the count.