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So, it's over to you.

During the past few weeks I hope I've given you a little more of an insight into this election campaign.

Now it's time for you to make up your mind.

This election has been different. Perhaps it's because we're in serious times. Perhaps it's the fall-out from MPs expenses. Perhaps it's the prime ministerial debates that have sparked an interest in changing the voting system.

It looks like you lot won't put up with a party getting a quarter of the vote but only a tenth of the seats any longer.

I've never known anything like this since since I started covering elections (and there's been too many to mention).

When the Guardian comes out for the Lib Dems and there's panic in the
Murdoch stable at the prospect of their tabloid backing the wrong horse, you know something's up.

Are you worried? Concerned over where to place your carefully aimed vote or is it a case of the least worst option?

What change could provide is a springboard for the smaller parties who struggle to get their voices heard?

It could also transform the political landscape for our Independent candidates, who often invest their own money in a conviction campaign.

Imagine how many more votes they would get under proportional representation when the spectre of a "wasted vote" would be removed.

This was supposed to be the Independents' election.

And in many ways it has been, with 12 candidates in Luton South adding to the colour and intensity of the campaign. There's a long and heroic history of Independent candidates leaving a trail of lost deposits over the years.

Inevitably, they face a tough struggle. The big parties have more money and more experience, an army of canvassers and big names who can be diverted to the key seats. In a tight election all of that can make a real difference.

At the simplest level, even election basics like close of nominations can bring issues for Independents, as Peter Turtill, one of nine candidates standing in Ipswich, pointed out.

There's a pro-swimming pool campaigner and Mr Turtill is campaigning for public rights of way to be maintained alongside other issues in a 9-way fight alongside all the major parties.

When nominations closed on April 20th it took a couple of days for the ´óÏó´«Ã½ website to get all the names up. Some Independents, without the party machinery to send out press releases beforehand, were the casualties.

The life of an Independent candidate would be a lot happier one should there be change this time.

Tough decisions lie ahead for whichever government is delivered by your votes.

Your difficult decision is right now.

Good luck.

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